This week I had class number two of the second round of dog training with Jaxon. 

Jaxon, our now six-month old boxer, passed puppy school and did very well despite being easily distracted.  VERY easily distracted.  This week we had class number two of the second round of dog training.  The objective is to build on his puppy skills.  Week one he was a model student.  He even acted as model to some of the younger dogs in the class.  What a proud moment for a dog-mom when the instructor picks him to demonstrate a skill!

We went back this week.  Jaxon was excited to be going on a car ride.  I was riding on the pride of week one, looking forward to him learning more lessons to being the best behaved dog on the planet.  We entered class with the other seven dogs… and then it happened.

Somewhere between home and the classroom, someone replaced my model student dog for a raging lunatic dog that would not focus on ANYTHING but the other dogs.  He barely attended with a treat held in front of his face.  He pulled on the leash right and left.  He took multiple verbal prompts (sometimes with a gentle physical nudge) to “sit”.  This, the dog that graduated from puppy school barely two weeks ago!  I was embarrassed as he interrupted the other dogs and handlers, and I was so frustrated that it seemed all the work training him was flying out the window in one short hour.

Sometimes I stress about things. 

Maybe a wee bit too much.

Obviously, I cannot control the mind of a dog.  Especially the mind of a spirited, high-energy, keen thinking, manipulative boxer puppy.  So I tell myself…

He is STILL a puppy. 

He is ONLY a puppy. 

You are stressing about a DOG.

Today my rational brain has kicked back in to gear.

I have a lovely, friendly, active, healthy puppy.  Yes, he will continue to drive me crazy from time to time.  That is, in part, his job.  I also have good health.  I have a brain that allows me to engage with my world and find challenges in new experiences.  I have passions and people in my life to fill my time, and honor me with such precious memories. 

Compared to many in the world, I have so very much.  I have food to eat, clothes to wear, and a comfortable home.  Bottom line?  I have no stress.  I am grateful for the gifts I have in my life, including the raging lunatic dog that sometimes possesses my precious Jaxon.