It has been an interesting morning insomuch as we took Maya to the Garden Centre to expose her to something different. As expected, everything was a mix of new smells and things to investigate, so it was hard work keeping her in check. The staff were brilliant though and said she would probably get carpet burns on her nose because she was sniffing so hard!
There were several other dogs there and she was good with all of them, not making a fuss or lunging to play. We stopped for tea and cake, with me deliberately buying those with no chocolate so that she could have a little as a treat. One couple commented on how well behaved she was for her age, and she received a lot of fuss and admiration. Walking out wasn’t quite so dignified or well choreographed as she pulled like hell, but it was her first time there and we think she did pretty well really. It has given us confidence to take her somewhere where dogs are allowed so that we can have a cuppa and she will know she won’t be left out.
Back home, I spent some time with her in the garden practicing the sit, wait and come which we had tried at class off lead last time. On a positive note, she sat and waited when I walked away, but anticipated me calling her so as soon as I turned round, she came to me. Saying that though, she sat immediately in front of me for her treat, and that had also been part of the exercise.
Both of us have played with her one on one today so she has had some quality time now that the weather has improved. Not much fun for us being cooped up indoors on a rainy day let alone a puppy. It’s lovely here today and Hubby has just taken her for her second walk. My back’s playing me up so walking her myself is painful, but playtime is OK as I’m not trying to control or hold her.
Have a good day everyone. Take care and keep safe.
pensitivity101 
Lovely way to spend a day.
It was a good start.
She is too smart! That she anticipates your turn and recall is good… Perhaps having her come while your back is turned might help??
I might try that. Originally I backed away before calling her to me, but when I was able to turn my back and walk away, I was really pleased.
Sounds like she’s doing well 😊
She’s coming along nicely.
Well done getting the public places and cafes as part of her training so you can both do somethings you like too 💜💜💜
Maggie was very good too and there are quite a few places where dogs are allowed now, so we can take Maya into shops as well as cafes.
I know Ruby loved going out to places, she probably remembered being able to go anywhere when she was working 💜💜