Oh Sia, she didn't quite make it to midnight but she tried. All of our hard work paid off! She did great at the small New Years Eve gathering. She was very polite and only tired to jump a couple of times. There was food on the tables and counter tops and she did very well. Her recalls were excellent even when she was distracted by new dogs. She did show a little bit of sound sensitivity to the faraway fireworks (nervous pacing) but was easily redirected to get her mind off of the sounds. She was a big hit and everyone fell in love with her.
We had great opportunities for socialization. She met new people and new dogs. She was a little unsure of this Norwegian Elkhound. But this was a perfect opportunity for her to get more comfortable with Enya. Enya was in a crate so she couldn't approach Sia. It's important to never force a dog into a situation where they are fearful so I let Sia approach the kennel at her own pace. She would stretch as far as she could to get close to the kennel without moving her feet. Eventually she went up to the kennel to meet Enya on her own.
In addition to new people and new dogs, it's important to get dogs use to new sounds and new objects. Sia had this opportunity at the New Years Eve gathering as well. Listening to someone play a musical instrument sure peeked her interest. Although she was unsure of it, she didn't back away which is good. I don't make a big deal out of new experiences for the dogs, I just want them to experience it on their own. If I see a dog getting too uncomfortable I will either remove them from the situation or I might run them through some easy commands to help build their confidence and get their mind on something else.
All in all it was a good night for Sia! I think she's off to a great start for the New Year!!
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