Molly | German Shephard Mix | Seal Beach | In Training

Please welcome Molly!

Molly is a 1-year-old German Shephard mix from Seal Beach, California! She’s come to us to join our Two-Week Community Board and Train Program. She’s a bouncy gal with a lot of energy and willingness to listen, though that can be easily distracted by digging. And if she’s not digging, she’s letting anyone who comes into the house know she’s the first to greet if she doesn’t bulldoze you over first! She’s quite the prey driven little predator and will chase squirrels or anything that might look like fun to chase; good luck if you’re attached to the leash!

Follow along as she and I get to know one another and see if maybe we can’t direct that puppy energy to being a more productive and easier companion for her mom!

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Pupdate 7/8

Today was all about first impressions, building a connection, and starting Molly’s training journey! We kicked things off at a local park where we began working on the Heel command. Heeling teaches Molly to walk politely at my side instead of leading the way, helping her learn that paying attention to her handler is more rewarding than everything else happening around her. The park gave us just the right amount of distractions to start introducing this important skill while keeping things fun and positive.

We also started pairing Sit with Heel. Every time we came to a stop, Molly was asked to sit rather than standing and waiting for the next adventure. This helps build the habit of automatically checking in with her handler whenever movement stops. Over time, this creates better impulse control, improves focus, and encourages calm behavior whether we’re waiting to cross a street, greeting someone, or simply taking a break during a walk.

For our very first day together, Molly did a wonderful job! Every training partnership starts with getting to know one another, and today was all about laying that foundation. She showed a willingness to learn, and I’m excited to watch her confidence and skills grow with each session.

Great job today, Molly; we’re off to a fantastic start!