Getting Back to Normalcy

We've had a rocky few days back at the house, and are trying to get back into the swing of things.

I'm feeling great, the red line thingie on my belly is almost totally closed and disappearing fast, and I'm ready to romp!

Of course, since Dad was home, I didn't spend as much time in my little bed area as I normally do (he calls it my "crate"). So - I didn't really feel like going back inside again when he had to go out.

Don't get me wrong, now! I don't mind wandering in every now and again, sleeping there, and maybe grabbing my toys out of there and then dropping them one by one in the living room to play there...but, gosh, it's not nearly as much fun in there are out here. I mean...when I'm there, I mostly sleep!

When I was going in every morning like clockwork, that was kinda of different. But now that I've been doing something different for a few days, I'm kinda having mixed feelings going back into my old routine.

I do know that Dad really wants me to feel comfortable staying back in my bed place again when he's at away at work. He says that if I'm not there, I get stressed out and worried if he's not in there during the day and gone for a while.

I don't know what he means.

I mean...sure, I steal his slippers and socks and anything that smells like Dad, and drag it out to the living room, and jump on his bed and try to sleep there (did I mentioned it smells like him there, too!) - oh! and I get really, really, really excited when he comes home (and, I'm not sure, but I think whine and scratch at the door a little after he's gone) - but why is that a big thing?

In fact, last time he was gone, I had *so* much fun! I got into the little basket where the little nose-thingie papers are and tore them all to pieces! It was so pretty! Pretty shreds everywhere! I love redecorating!

You should have seen what I did with the other paper thingies on that roller thingie! You know, the one near the special doggie water fountain with the lid? Yeah, that one! I grabbed the end and pulled and pulled. It was like a big white streamer all over!

Now doesn't all that sound better than calming down and sleeping peacefully during the day, like when I'm in my bed place?

Dad is *so* old-fashioned!

Anyhow - we've been having a few stand-off's the past few days.

I think he needs to go somewhere, but I'm pretty sure I can wait him out. Last night, he missed a going out to a play trying to wait me out. I think he was kinda steamed. So, I was nice and let him groom me for a long while without fussing too much.

This morning, we did the same thing.

But, then, he wouldn't pay any attention to me, at least until I went into my bed place. Then he was all excited and happy. So, I played along this time. Dunno if I will again tomorrow. We'll see.

Oh...we've also been trying something new when we walk.

I used to bolt out in front of Dad and insist on leading. I mean, someone has to be in charge, right? I don't wanna be the pack leader, but...

Anyhow, the past few days, Dad has been kinda insisting that I stay by his side or a little behind him during the walks, and won't go forward if I'm not. That's OK most of the time, I suppose. So long as he lets me do some sniffing and all.

Sometimes I forget and still try to bolt ahead, but Dad either turns around and starts walking the other way, or he puts his paw out so I have to stop before I can really get to ahead. After a few times doing that, I usually figure it's not worth the fuss and play a long for a good while. Unless, I see something more exciting, that is...

For example, today I saw another doggie and I absolutely, positively, had to get over and play with that doggie. I didn't want any treats, or affection, and I wasn't about to pay attention or change direction. I can be very determined when I want my way, just so you know!

So - we had a bit of kerfuffle, when Dad tried to hustle me away. It was not pretty. I even nipped at Dad's leg cover when he tried to get me away. (Sorry, Dad).

Dad tried to stay calm and assertive, but I'm pretty sure he was not happy. But, what can I do? I'm just a puppy! I'm still learning and I don't know how not to get all crazy-excited when I see another dog, even across the street. I just *gotta* get over there! Or, at least pull at the thingie attached to my neck thingie, get up on my rear paws, and bark...bark...alot...

Sometimes, the other doggie's Dad even get nervous or gives my Dad dirty looks. (Again, sorry Dad).

Dad's talking about trying to find something called "growl classes" in the area, but no one seems to be offering any. He says we have to work on how I'm acting around other doggies. Honestly - I can't help it. I can't think straight then, you know?

Today, Dad even called up the trainer lady and told her to arrange private "obedience" classes, since he thinks I won't be able to handle a room filled with othe doggies.

Sorry, Dad. :-(

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Barked by: CALI (Dogster Member)

June 22nd 2009 at 7:18 pm