This is a similar smile that dog owners' have when their dogs start to come out of adolescence. It's so rewarding to start to see the fruits of your labor coming together. More times then not, Sia is listening and complying with requests although she still needs boundaries and consistency (and occasional reminders that her hearing is just fine).
If Sia is distracted and does not comply with a request, calmly say "No" and repeat the command. If needed, follow up with a hand signal. Still not complying? Try moving her a little farther away from the distraction and repeat the verbal correction and command.
Then praise her a lot when she does comply. She needs a clear road map of the behavior you like as well as the behavior you don't like.
There will be times when she gets distracted but she is still doing what she is suppose to be doing.
If she still holds it together against all odds, praise her! For such a busy girl, this is a really big deal.
Focus a lot on her successes...especially when it comes to self control.
Continue to find ways to burn off her energy. Although she won't have puppy energy forever, she will probably always be a bit of a busy girl.
Keep incorporating play into your training. It makes it more fun for you and for Sia and helps to keep her engaged.
Enjoy her quirky behavior like when she licks your ear when you tell her "no." Dogs know when you are happy and enjoy being around people who are laughing and smiling.
We're all happy Sia will be back soon. There is a lot for her to do here. I'm sure Thistle's ears will be in need of cleaning by the time she gets back.
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