11/25/2025
Mavis wrapped up her Lodge and Leisure weekend on Sunday and did beautifully here. She learned a couple new skills, made friends, handled new environments, had a photoshoot, painted a picture and worked hard through puppy feelings. She settled in well and showed a lot of promise.
Then her family arrived to pick her up - and Ghost came out to play frisbee.
All of her new skills floated right out of her head and she was instantly overwhelmed. The excitement, the stress, the “my people are here, that dog is playing, and I cannot handle this moment” energy took over. That is when the growling and nipping came out. Not aggression, just a very overstimulated puppy whose brain temporarily fizzled out. This was the first I had seen it with her.
This happens more often than people realize. Puppies can stay regulated in a structured environment, but the moment their emotions spike, all that careful thinking falls apart. It is absolutely normal and developmentally appropriate, and it is something we can guide her through. Many people see this as “bad” behavior, but I see it as the puppy showing us how she learns and what she struggles with. That information is essential for building real skills and an actual relationship with the dog.
She truly was wonderful here and I so look forward to the next time!
