This week brought structure and renewed focus — a clear training plan to help Nakina continue progressing with intention.

🐾 Organized

This week, I realized I wasn’t being as consistent as I needed to be with Nakina’s training. So I got organized.

I created a written training plan outlining everything we’re working on so I can track progress daily. I also began logging the time I spend on anything training-related to keep myself accountable and intentional.

Training

We started a 14-day focus program after Nakina struggled a bit with distractions in class last week. We’re also working through a 28-day obedience challenge to identify any weak spots so we can address them proactively.

Loose leash walking continues to go beautifully, as does recall. I purchased a gimbal tripod system so I can record our training sessions. Being able to review footage makes it much easier to identify subtle timing or handling issues and improve more efficiently.

This is her final week of classes for this session, and she’s already enrolled in two more for the next one.

Socialization

Nakina went to the groomer this week for a nail trim since I haven’t yet gotten her comfortable with the Dremel. She struggled a bit when they took her away from me, which tells me we need more separation work and more grooming desensitization. Another opportunity for growth.

Nakina attended a herding competition this week, watching dogs work ducks, and she was captivated by all the movement, dogs, and people. Prior to that, we went to a horse jumping competition, and she was remarkably well behaved. I’ve never seen her so focused — she watched quietly, taking everything in with calm curiosity. It was one of those moments where you glimpse the dog she’s becoming.

What's Next

• Walking — calm leash walking on the left and sitting at stops for longer distances
• Down vs. settle — continue creating a clear distinction
• Recall — continue on leash in more distracting environments
• Car/Crate — calm, cued entry and exit from the car crate
• Grooming — continue desensitizing to the Dremel
• Continue elevator desensitization

I’m looking forward to approaching this week with more focus and intention so I can help Nakina become the very best companion she can be.