Kyon | Bernedoodle | Rancho Cucamonga | In Training
- Chelsea Benz
- May 31
- 25 min read
Updated: Jun 19
Please welcome Kyon!
Kyon is an 18-week-old Bernedoodle from Rancho Cucamonga, California, who has joined us for our Three-Week Board and Train Program. He's a fun-loving, energetic pup with a big personality and an even bigger heart. Full of curiosity and enthusiasm, Kyon is always ready to jump into whatever life has to offer; sometimes a little too quickly!
While Kyon is a sweet boy, he has developed a habit of relying heavily on his mom or dad whenever he feels uncertain. When something startles him or doesn't go his way, his first instinct is often to run back for comfort and be picked up. While this comes from a place of love, being consistently removed from situations can sometimes prevent a dog from learning how to work through mild stress and build confidence on their own. Over time, this can create a cycle where the world feels increasingly overwhelming because the dog never gets the opportunity to realize they can successfully handle it.
Like many young dogs, Kyon's perception of the world can be a little inconsistent. One moment he's confidently exploring his surroundings, and the next a sudden noise, unfamiliar object, or flock of birds can have him questioning all of life's decisions. That's perfectly okay, Kyon! Confidence isn't something dogs are born with; it's something they develop through guidance, structure, and positive experiences.
Over the next three weeks, we'll be helping Kyon build that confidence from the ground up. Through obedience, exposure training, and clear communication, he'll learn that while the world can be full of distractions and surprises, looking to his handler for direction is far more rewarding than reacting to every little thing around him.
We can't wait to watch this handsome boy grow into a calmer, more confident version of himself!
Pupdate 5/31
Today we decided to keep things simple and start our training journey right here in the backyard. Whenever a dog enters a new environment, especially one away from home, there is an adjustment period as they learn new routines, new expectations, and begin building trust with their trainer. After spending some time with Kyon, it became clear that he is still learning how to understand and respond to leash pressure, which is one of the foundational communication tools we'll use throughout his training.
As a trainer, part of my job is setting a dog up for success. While it can be tempting to immediately jump into busy parks and highly distracting environments, doing so before a dog has the necessary skills can often create frustration and confusion. By working in a quieter, more controlled setting, Kyon is able to focus on learning without becoming overwhelmed by the world around him. Building confidence and understanding in these easier environments creates a much stronger foundation for success when we eventually begin tackling more challenging locations.
Today was all about introducing concepts, creating clarity, and allowing Kyon to start understanding that leash pressure isn't something to fight against, but rather a form of communication that can help guide him toward the correct decision. Every confident, reliable dog starts with these small building blocks, and Kyon showed some promising signs that he's ready to learn.
As you can see in the video, I'd dare say it was a pretty good first day, Kyon! We took things at your pace, started laying the groundwork for future success, and most importantly, began building a relationship based on trust and communication. Not bad for Day One, buddy!
Pupdate 6/1
Today we took a trip to Whittier Park to meet up with some fellow trainers and their dogs for a training session in a more active environment. This provided Kyon with an excellent opportunity to practice his developing skills around new sights, sounds, people, and distractions while continuing to build confidence outside of the home.
One of the biggest improvements we noticed today was Kyon's understanding of leash pressure. Compared to our first day, he appeared much more relaxed and responsive when guided on leash. This is an important step in his training journey, as leash pressure serves as one of the primary ways we communicate with our dogs. When a dog understands how to follow that guidance instead of resisting it, the training process becomes much clearer and less stressful for everyone involved. Rather than feeling confused or frustrated, Kyon was beginning to recognize that the leash is there to provide direction and support.
Being around other trainers and dogs also gave Kyon valuable exposure in a controlled setting. While there were certainly plenty of interesting things competing for his attention, he did a nice job working through the environment and settling into the training session. Every successful outing helps reinforce that the world isn't quite as overwhelming as it may first seem.
After all the excitement and learning, we returned home where Kyon enjoyed a well-deserved nap. Rest is just as important as training, as it gives dogs the opportunity to process everything they've learned and recharge for the next adventure.
Well done today, Kyon! You're starting to put the pieces together, and we're excited to see what tomorrow brings.
Pupdate 6/2
Today we took our training out into the neighborhood to continue working on leash pressure and introducing the fundamentals of a proper heel. While this may seem like a simple exercise, neighborhood walks provide an excellent opportunity to practice obedience in a real-world environment filled with distractions such as passing cars, barking dogs, unfamiliar sounds, and all the interesting smells a curious dog could ask for.
One of the most exciting parts of today's session was seeing just how much progress Kyon has already made. Comparing his work today to how he looked in the backyard when he first arrived, the difference is remarkable. Rather than feeling unsure and resisting guidance on the leash, Kyon is beginning to understand the conversation taking place between us. He is learning that leash pressure isn't something to pull against or be concerned about; it's simply information that helps guide him toward the correct choice.
His body language reflected this growing understanding as well. Throughout much of the walk, Kyon appeared noticeably more relaxed and comfortable. His movements were smoother, his focus was better, and he spent less time worrying about what was happening around him and more time paying attention to where we were going together. Confidence often shows itself in small ways, and today Kyon gave us plenty of those moments. Even his "Sit", while needing encouragement, was drastically better today because he was relaxed.
The heel position is about much more than simply walking beside a handler. It teaches a dog to check in, stay engaged, and look to their person for direction when navigating the world. For a dog like Kyon, who can sometimes be uncertain about his surroundings, this skill is especially valuable because it helps replace anxiety with clarity and purpose.
Overall, Kyon did a fantastic job today. Every walk is becoming a little smoother, every lesson a little clearer, and every success a little bigger than the last.
You could say Kyon is really starting to Kyon-nect the dots! Terrible pun but well earned. Good job, Kyon!
Pupdate 6/3
Today we took a trip to Lake Balboa, and what a difference a few days of training can make!
If you remember our first visit, I mentioned how Lake Balboa proved to be quite the challenge for Kyon. The environment was full of distractions, unfamiliar sights, sounds, people, and wildlife, and at the time he was still trying to understand the concept of leash pressure. Rather than seeing the leash as a source of guidance, he was often uncertain about what was being asked of him, making it difficult for him to relax and navigate such a stimulating environment.
Fast forward to today, and the improvement was remarkable. Kyon showed a much greater understanding of leash communication and was able to move through the environment with significantly more confidence and clarity. Instead of reacting to every distraction around him, he spent more time focused on the task at hand and looking to his handler for direction.
His body language told the story just as much as his actions. Today we saw a dog who was carrying himself with more confidence, moving more fluidly, and appearing far less concerned about everything happening around him. Rather than the uncertainty we saw during our first outing, Kyon was able to settle into the walk, process his surroundings, and make thoughtful decisions instead of emotional reactions. These may seem like small details, but they are huge indicators that a dog is beginning to feel more comfortable and secure in the world around them.
Experiences like this are incredibly important because they allow us to measure true progress. Training isn't just about learning commands; it's about developing confidence, building trust, and teaching a dog how to successfully navigate new environments without becoming overwhelmed. Today, Kyon showed us exactly that.
All in all, an absolutely fantastic day, Kyon! Watching you return to a place that once felt challenging and handle it with such improvement is something to be proud of. Keep it up, buddy; you're really starting to come into your own!
Pupdate 6/4
Today we headed back out to Lake Balboa for another day of training and exposure work, and Kyon put together a very nice session. Lake Balboa provides an excellent training environment because it naturally offers a steady flow of distractions, from people walking, jogging, and riding bikes to dogs passing by on trails and gathering around the park. These types of environments allow us to practice real-world obedience while teaching dogs how to remain calm and neutral around the many things that compete for their attention. And again, since he's already been here, it's a desensitizing effort as well as a chance to train.
One area where Kyon really shined today was around passing people. Rather than becoming overly interested in every person who walked by, he showed much better restraint and focus. He was able to acknowledge the distractions around him without feeling the need to engage with them, which is exactly what we want to see. A well-mannered dog doesn't need to greet every person they encounter; instead, they learn that remaining calm and attentive to their handler is the expectation.
Kyon also did an excellent job around other dogs today. With so many canine distractions throughout the park, there were plenty of opportunities to practice maintaining composure. He showed significantly more self-control when dogs passed by, displaying a calmer mindset and a greater willingness to stay engaged in his work rather than fixating on what was happening around him. This type of neutrality is an important part of developing a reliable companion, as it helps prevent excitement, frustration, or reactivity from taking over in stimulating environments.
Throughout the outing, Kyon continued practicing his leash manners and obedience commands while navigating the busy park. Exposure sessions like these are incredibly valuable because they teach a dog that the same expectations apply everywhere, not just at home or in a quiet training setting. Every successful repetition helps build confidence and reinforces the idea that he can remain calm, focused, and responsive regardless of what is happening around him.
Overall, Kyon had a fantastic day at Lake Balboa. He continues to make steady progress with his impulse control, focus, and ability to work around both people and dogs. It's great to see him becoming more comfortable and confident in busy public environments while maintaining a level-headed attitude throughout his training.
You could say Kyon is making quite a splash when it comes to handling distractions at Lake Balboa!
Pupdate 6/5
Today Kyon joined me for a training outing at the Oaks Mall, giving us an excellent opportunity to practice his obedience and manners in a highly distracting environment. Malls are fantastic training locations because they expose dogs to a constant flow of people, shopping carts, automatic doors, unfamiliar sounds, food smells, and changing foot traffic patterns. Working in an environment like this helps teach a dog that obedience isn't just something we practice in quiet places; it's something we carry with us everywhere we go.
One of the biggest goals for today's session was continuing to build Kyon's confidence and reliability around distractions. Throughout our outing, he did a great job remaining engaged and working through the busy atmosphere. We saw nice moments of focus as people passed by, groups gathered nearby, and new sights and sounds presented themselves. Rather than becoming overwhelmed or fixated, Kyon showed an increasing ability to process his surroundings and return his attention back to the task at hand.
Today we also made an important adjustment by transitioning from the slip lead to a flat collar and leash. This was done intentionally to see whether the change in pressure and communication would affect his understanding of the commands we've been teaching. The ultimate goal of training is for the dog to understand the behavior itself rather than relying on a specific piece of equipment, so testing those skills with different tools is an important step in the process.
Kyon handled the transition exceptionally well. His understanding of what was being asked of him remained consistent, and he continued to work with confidence despite the change. This is a great indication that he's beginning to truly understand the behaviors rather than simply responding to a particular training setup. Seeing that level of consistency tells us that the foundation we're building is becoming stronger and more reliable.
His body language throughout the outing was another highlight. Kyon appeared noticeably more relaxed and comfortable navigating the busy environment. We saw a calmer posture, softer movements, and an increased willingness to settle into his commands rather than questioning them. These subtle signs of confidence are often just as important as the obedience itself because they show a dog is beginning to understand the world around them and how to successfully work through it.
Overall, Kyon did a fantastic job today. Between handling the distractions of the Oaks Mall and smoothly transitioning to a flat collar and leash, he showed us just how much progress he's making. Every outing continues to build on the last and today was another great step toward creating a confident, reliable companion.
Kyon really malled over his options today and decided being a good boy was the best one! Again, terrible pun but worth it.
Pupdate 6/6
Today we took another trip back to the Oaks Mall for continued exposure and obedience work. We've also introduced Come To Sit, which is still a work in progress but you can see in the video he's slowly but surely getting it!
Returning to the same environment is a very important part of the training process. While visiting a new location can be a great learning experience, true progress comes from revisiting those environments and helping a dog become more comfortable and confident through repetition. Each trip allows Kyon to build upon his previous experiences, turning unfamiliar and overwhelming situations into something much more predictable and manageable.
The Oaks Mall remains a challenging environment for Kyon and today was a good reminder of that. With the constant movement of shoppers, changing noises, food smells, and busy walkways, there was a lot for him to process. He was definitely still feeling overwhelmed at times, which showed in moments where his attention drifted away from the task at hand as he tried to take in everything happening around him. This is completely normal and is exactly why we continue bringing him back to these types of environments.
His body language told a lot of the story today. There were moments where he appeared alert and somewhat tense as he observed everything happening around him, but what was encouraging was his ability to recover. Instead of remaining stuck on distractions, he was increasingly able to relax, re-engage, and continue working. That recovery is often where the real growth happens. Confidence isn't built by avoiding stressful situations; it's built by successfully navigating them.
Overall, today wasn't about having a flawless session; it was about building resilience. Kyon faced an environment that still challenges him, worked through moments of uncertainty, and came out the other side with another positive experience under his belt. That's exactly the kind of progress we're looking for, and it's something to be proud of.
On a side note, the fact he is still very young means his bladder control is only as strong as his resilience and over excitement can sometimes cause "happy pee" which is him unable to retain his bladder properly. We did have one incident yesterday that resulted in this so to combat this from further on I am approaching his crate with a more calm, relaxed tone. He's just a happy little guy who likes to get attention so while it can be hard to dissuade excitement of that level, consistency is key to avoiding that.
Pupdate 6/7
Today Kyon and I headed over to Lowe's for another round of public exposure and obedience training. Lowe's is one of my favorite places to work dogs because it provides a controlled but highly stimulating environment. Between the shopping carts, forklifts, loud noises, automatic doors, different flooring surfaces, and steady stream of people, it offers countless opportunities to practice obedience in a real-world setting. The goal isn't simply to get through the store—it's to teach Kyon that no matter what is happening around him, he can remain calm, focused, and responsive.
Kyon came into today's session ready to work, but there were definitely moments where he got a little caught up in everything going on around him. With so many sights, sounds, and smells competing for his attention, there were times when his curiosity got the better of him. That's perfectly okay and honestly a normal part of the learning process. Training isn't about expecting perfection; it's about helping a dog navigate challenges and learn from them. Every moment of distraction becomes an opportunity to practice re-engagement and reinforce the behaviors we're looking for.
His body language reflected this throughout the outing. At times, Kyon was noticeably alert and interested in his surroundings, taking in all the activity around him. You could see him wanting to investigate the environment and process everything happening nearby. However, what was encouraging was his ability to work through those moments and reconnect with the task at hand. Rather than remaining locked onto distractions, he showed an increasing willingness to redirect his focus and continue working, which is a sign that his confidence and understanding are continuing to develop.
We also began implementing the Down command more frequently throughout today's session. This is an important behavior because it requires a higher level of trust, patience, and impulse control than many other commands. While a sit keeps a dog ready to move, a down asks them to fully settle and relax, even when exciting things are happening around them. For many dogs, especially in busy public environments, this can be a challenging request because it places them in a more vulnerable and stationary position.
Kyon worked through these exercises well, and while he didn't always jump at the opportunity to lie down immediately, the added repetitions are helping him become more comfortable with the command. The more he learns that "Down" is simply another job to perform; not something to worry about; the more reliable and confident he'll become with it in all environments.
Overall, Kyon had a productive day. We encountered challenges, worked through distractions, and continued building the foundations of calm behavior in public. Progress isn't measured by having a perfect session every time; it's measured by continuing to show up, work through the difficult moments, and come out a little better than before. Kyon did exactly that today.
Looks like Kyon is learning that when life gets a little down-right distracting, that's the perfect time to practice "Down!"
Pupdate 6/8
Today we kept things a little simpler and took our training to the backyard to focus on one of Kyon's more challenging commands: Down. While public outings are great for exposure and obedience around distractions, it's equally important to spend time reinforcing behaviors in a quieter environment where learning can take place with less pressure. By returning to the basics, we can help build confidence and understanding before expecting the same level of reliability in busier locations.
As shown in today's video, we spent time working through the Down command and helping Kyon become more comfortable with the behavior. Down can be a difficult exercise for many dogs because it requires them to fully settle their bodies and relinquish some control of their environment. Unlike a sit, which keeps them ready to move at a moment's notice, a down asks them to relax, be patient, and trust the guidance they're being given.
Kyon showed some good effort today as we worked through the repetitions. There were moments where he needed a little extra encouragement and time to think through what was being asked of him, but that's all part of the learning process. Rather than rushing him, we focused on rewarding the right decisions and building positive associations with the behavior. Each successful repetition helps increase his confidence and understanding of the command.
His body language improved as the session went on. Early on, there was some hesitation as he worked through the exercise, but with consistency and clear communication, he began offering the behavior more willingly. Seeing him relax into the command and spend more time settled on the ground is a good sign that he's becoming more comfortable with the expectation.
Overall, today was a productive session focused on strengthening a foundational skill. Sometimes the biggest progress comes from slowing things down and putting in the work on the basics, and Kyon continues to show that he's willing to learn and improve with each session.
Pupdate 6/9
Today, Kyon packed his bags and headed out for a training adventure at Home Depot! While we've spent time working in stores like Lowe's before, Home Depot offers a slightly different training environment. The layout, sounds, smells, foot traffic, and overall flow of people can vary from store to store, and exposing dogs to these different environments helps prevent them from becoming "context-dependent" learners. In other words, we want Kyon to understand that his commands apply everywhere, not just in familiar places.
With carts rattling by, forklifts operating in the distance, employees moving merchandise, and customers bustling through the aisles, Home Depot provided plenty of real-world distractions. We focused on practicing two important commands: Down and Come to Sit. These exercises help reinforce impulse control, responsiveness, and engagement with the handler even when exciting things are happening around him.
Kyon rose to the occasion and did very well overall. He showed good composure in a highly active environment, worked through distractions nicely, and continued to demonstrate a growing understanding of what is expected of him. While busy public spaces can be challenging, each successful outing helps build confidence and reliability that will carry over into everyday life.
After putting in a solid day's work, we headed back home for some well-earned rest and relaxation. Training is as much about recovery as it is about practice, and a good nap gives Kyon's brain time to process everything he's learned.
Looks like Kyon really nailed the home improvement project today; one command at a time!
Pupdate 6/11
Today, Kyon joined me for another training outing at Lake Balboa, where we continued building on his obedience and confidence in a real-world environment. With plenty of people, dogs, wildlife, bikes, and other distractions moving about the park, it provided an excellent opportunity to practice maintaining focus while navigating the excitement of the outside world.
During today's session, we also incorporated a Heather's Hero. This tool is designed to provide clear communication and gentle guidance, helping dogs better understand leash pressure and directional cues without relying on strength or constant correction. For Kyon, it serves as a valuable teaching aid by helping him slow down, think through his decisions, and stay more connected to his handler during walks and training exercises. The goal isn't to control him; it's to help him learn how to control himself.
Kyon responded very well to the added guidance. As we worked around the park, his body language remained noticeably softer and more thoughtful. Rather than forging ahead or becoming overwhelmed by everything happening around him, he showed increased awareness of where I was and what was being asked of him. His posture was more relaxed, his attention checked back in more frequently, and he did a nice job working through distractions without letting them completely pull him off task.
One of the highlights of the day was seeing him continue to make better choices on his own. The combination of structure, repetition, and clear communication is helping Kyon understand that he doesn't need to react to every exciting thing he sees. Instead, he's learning that staying engaged and working as a team is often the most rewarding option.
And perhaps best of all; no accidents thus far! We've been staying on top of his potty schedule and making sure he's set up for success throughout the day. Consistency is key, and Kyon is continuing to make positive strides in that department.
After a successful outing filled with learning and good decisions, we headed home for some well-earned rest and relaxation.
I'd say Kyon really hero-ed up today; keeping his focus, keeping it clean, and proving he's ready to rise to the occasion!
Pupdate 6/12
Today, Kyon and I returned to Lake Balboa to continue building on the progress he's been making. While it may seem repetitive to revisit the same location, there is actually a lot of value in returning to a familiar training environment. Rather than introducing an entirely new set of variables, familiar places allow us to focus on refining behaviors and building consistency. Once the novelty of an environment begins to wear off, a dog can spend less energy processing where they are and more energy practicing what they've learned.
A unique part of revisiting locations is that dogs often remember previous experiences there. Lake Balboa is no longer just a park to Kyon; it's becoming a place associated with training, engagement, and working alongside his handler. Each successful visit helps strengthen that association, making it easier for him to settle into "work mode" and understand what's expected of him when we arrive.
Kyon's body language reflected this growing familiarity. He appeared comfortable and confident moving through the environment, carrying himself with a relaxed posture and showing less uncertainty than he may have during earlier visits. He checked in nicely throughout portions of our walk and demonstrated a better understanding of how to navigate distractions without becoming completely overwhelmed by them.
That being said, Kyon is still a young dog learning how to balance curiosity with focus.
He had a few moments where something particularly interesting caught his attention and pulled him away from the task at hand. Whether it was activity around the park, scents drifting through the air, or something new happening nearby, there were times when his focus wandered and needed to be redirected. The good news is that these moments are all part of the learning process. Training isn't about being perfect; it's about helping a dog recover from distractions and re-engage more quickly each time.That being said I don't mind him watching some times. Some of the geese at the lake are particularly hissive!
Overall, Kyon put together a solid outing. He showed confidence in a familiar environment, worked through distractions, and continued building the skills that will help him become a more reliable companion both at home and out in the world.
Looks like Kyon is learning that practice doesn't make perfect; it makes progress, and today he took another lap around the lake, and we'll get "Down" down in no time!
Pupdate 6/13
Pupdate 6/14
Today, Kyon and I headed to Lowe's for another public training outing. Stores like Lowe's are fantastic environments for training because they provide a controlled setting filled with real-world distractions. From shopping carts rattling down the aisles and people moving in every direction to loud noises, unusual smells, and changing displays, there's always something competing for a dog's attention. These outings help teach Kyon that even when the world around him is busy, he can still remain calm, focused, and responsive.
It was also very warm out; I wanted to give Kyon a bit of a breather from the hot summer days at Lake Balboa we've been having.
Throughout our session, Kyon carried himself with noticeably more confidence than he did during some of his earlier outings. His body language showed a dog that is becoming increasingly comfortable in these environments. He moved through the store with a relaxed posture, showed curiosity without becoming overwhelmed, and was able to settle back into work when asked. While he still checked out the occasional distraction, he was much quicker to reconnect and continue working as a team.
One thing that really stood out today was his progress with Down. In the video, you can see that the pieces are really starting to come together. Rather than questioning the command or needing significant guidance, Kyon is beginning to understand exactly what is being asked of him. That understanding is creating smoother, more confident responses and shows that all of the repetition and practice are paying off. Building a reliable Down takes time because it requires both physical commitment and mental patience, and Kyon is making some excellent strides in that department.
Overall, he had a very successful day. Every outing continues to build on the last, helping him become more comfortable, more focused, and more reliable in the face of everyday distractions.
Good job, Kyon! You're really starting to down-load the program now; one command at a time!
Pupdate 6/15
Today, Kyon and I headed over to Klingerman Park to continue working on his obedience around one of his biggest distractions: other dogs!
I'm happy to report that Kyon did a fantastic job. When he first started training, seeing another dog often meant he wanted to immediately investigate, greet, or otherwise involve himself in whatever they were doing. While his intentions were friendly, learning that not every dog needs to be interacted with is an important life skill.
Today's outing showed just how much progress he's making.
Throughout our session, Kyon was able to remain in his Sit and Down positions while other dogs passed by and moved around the park. Rather than pulling toward them or insisting on saying hello, he showed much better impulse control and a growing understanding that his job was to stay engaged with me.
His body language was especially encouraging. Kyon appeared relaxed and comfortable around the other dogs, displaying a loose posture and calm demeanor rather than the tense excitement that often comes with wanting to rush over and greet. He would notice the other dogs, acknowledge that they were there, and then settle back into his work. That's exactly the type of response we're looking for; not ignoring the world entirely, but learning that he doesn't have to react to everything he sees.
One of the biggest goals of training is teaching a dog how to exist calmly around distractions, and today Kyon demonstrated that he's beginning to understand that concept. Being able to remain seated or lying down while other dogs are nearby requiring patience, self-control, and trust in his handler, all of which he showed in abundance today.
Overall, I was very impressed with his progress. Watching him choose composure over excitement was a huge win, and its proof that all of his hard work is starting to pay off.
Great job, Kyon! Looks like you're learning that being one of the cool dogs means not needing to meet every dog in the park!
Pupdate 6/16
Today Kyon and I headed over to Century City Mall to continue working on his training in a busy real-world environment. With a soccer game drawing crowds into the center, the mall was absolutely buzzing with people, noise, movement, and excitement. While that might sound like a challenging setting, it was actually the perfect opportunity to put Kyon's growing skills to the test; and he rose to the occasion beautifully.
One of the most important aspects of training is helping a dog learn that they can remain calm and thoughtful even when the world around them is anything but. New sights, sounds, and large groups of people can easily pull a dog's attention away, but Kyon showed tremendous maturity today.
In the video, you can see his body language becoming much more relaxed and deliberate. Rather than being pulled in every direction by the activity around him, he was able to process the environment without becoming overwhelmed. His posture remained loose, his movements were controlled, and you could see him making the conscious decision to stay engaged with his work despite all the tempting distractions nearby. That's a huge sign of growing confidence and understanding.
Now for the part that made me especially proud: Kyon understands "Down!" After spending time building the foundation and helping him understand what was being asked, everything finally started clicking into place. The "Down" command is one of the most valuable obedience behaviors a dog can learn because it encourages calmness, impulse control, and relaxation. Unlike a Sit, which can still leave a dog ready to spring into action, a Down naturally encourages them to settle their body and mind. It's an important stepping stone toward learning patience in busy environments, and today Kyon showed us that he's beginning to truly understand the concept.
Watching him offer Downs amidst the crowds, cheering fans, and constant foot traffic was incredibly rewarding. Not only was he learning a new skill, but he was proving that he could perform it even when the environment was asking him to pay attention to everything else instead. That's where real progress happens.
I truly couldn't be prouder of our little guy. Every day he's becoming more confident, more thoughtful, and more capable of navigating the world around him. Today was a big win for Kyon, and he absolutely earned it.
Way to go, Kyon! You're really starting to down-load all this training information! I can't help the terrible puns!
Today we decided to keep things nice and easy with a relaxed training romp around the neighborhood. Sometimes slowing things down and working in familiar environments is just as important as tackling busy public spaces, as it allows dogs to practice their skills without becoming overwhelmed and helps build consistency in their everyday lives.
With Down now fully understood, we've shifted much of our attention toward Come to Sit, which is currently the command Kyon needs the most guidance with. Recall can be one of the more challenging exercises because it asks a dog to disengage from whatever has their attention and choose their handler instead. The good news is that I'm very pleased with his progress elsewhere! His Sit and Heel have become much more polished, and his enthusiasm for Place is downright adorable; he practically bounces onto his platform with excitement, eager to show off what he knows.
We've completely transitioned from Heather's Hero and Slip-Lead to leash and collar. He's doing so good!
Now, it's all about sharpening that recall and teaching him that coming all the way in and finishing in position is always worth it, even with distractions around. Today, I caught the tiniest glimpse of improvement, and those little moments are often where the biggest breakthroughs begin. At this rate, I think by the end of the week he's going to be one snappy gentleman with his commands. Way to go, Kyon!
And another victory worth celebrating still no accidents! Consistently taking Kyon outside throughout the day and timing potty breaks around an hour after meals has really paid off. Establishing a predictable routine helps him understand where and when he's supposed to go, preventing accidents before they happen and setting him up for long-term success around the house. He's been doing wonderfully, and it's been great seeing those good habits become part of his daily routine.
Kyon is proving that progress isn't always about giant leaps; sometimes it's about a bunch of little wins adding up into one very good boy. Keep it up, Kyon! You've got this paws down! Hurray terrible puns!
Bonus photo of when I was trying to get his attention and he couldn't figure out why I was making weird noises in public!
Pupdate 6/18
Today Kyon made another trip to Home Depot, and our young man continues to impress with his growing maturity. While he's still very much a puppy, that's perfectly okay; perfection isn't the goal. Building understanding, engagement, and a willingness to work through mistakes is what matters most, and Kyon is showing all of those qualities in spades.
With plenty of sights, sounds, and bustling shoppers around, Kyon practiced his obedience while learning that even exciting environments don't change the expectations we've set. His body language was relaxed and curious, and while he had a few puppy moments here and there, what stood out most was his attentiveness.
When he got ahead of himself or became momentarily distracted, he didn't argue or forge onward. Instead, this understanding little gentleman recognized when he'd mucked up, accepted guidance, and happily got back to work.
That's a huge part of what makes a good dog; not never making mistakes, but being willing to listen and make better choices when they happen. Those moments of accountability and cooperation are what transform puppy antics into lifelong manners.
Kyon continues to develop into a thoughtful companion with a wonderful attitude, and each outing strengthens that bond of trust and communication. He's proving that progress isn't about being perfect; it's about trying, learning, and showing up with a wag and a willingness to do better. And at the end of the day he still gets all the praise he deserves. He is still fresh to the world and all that it has to offer. And while he may trip up, him registering any reset positively is just as important.
Way to go, Kyon! He's really starting to nail the basics, one aisle at a time!
Pupdate 6/19
Today Kyon took his training to the Santa Monica Promenade, and our little gentleman rose to the occasion beautifully! With crowds of people, music, conversations, unfamiliar sights, and all sorts of distractions around every corner, the Promenade provided the perfect opportunity to continue building his confidence and understanding in a busy environment.
With Fifa in full swing and it being a holiday, it was quite the bustling adventure we had.
Being the puppy he is, Kyon had a few moments where curiosity got the better of him, but what continues to impress is his willingness to listen and recover. Rather than becoming frustrated or shutting down, he showed thoughtful body language and an eagerness to understand what was being asked of him. His tail stayed relaxed, his eyes remained bright, and he was quick to check back in with his handler after taking in the exciting world around him.
We took to the walkway with confidence and boy did he rise to the occasion. From Heel, and Sit, To Down, and Place, he even finally got Come To Sit down fantastically. I couldn't be more proud of his progress.
These kinds of outings are invaluable because they teach Kyon that the rules don't change just because the scenery does. Whether he's at home, at Home Depot, or strolling through the bustling Promenade, the expectation is the same: stay attentive, work through distractions, and enjoy the adventure together.
Perfection isn't what we're after; understanding is. Kyon is learning that making mistakes isn't the end of the world. A thoughtful dog knows when he's gotten a little carried away, accepts guidance, and gets right back to work. That's exactly the kind of attitude that creates a reliable companion, and Kyon is proving himself to be quite the attentive young man.
It has been my privilege to watch his growth and appreciate how much trust he put in me through his journey in training. For such a little pup, he showed he could have the confidence any big dog could have.
Way to go, Kyon! You handled this adventure with pawsitive strides and plenty of style!
Comments