Aliens & Puppies
Loon is 4 1/2 months. She has had a minimum of 100 new things in 100 days...but, I reminded myself the other day, that we were falling into a socialization pattern. Yes, she has been many places and seen or met many new people and dogs, but often it was in places we have been before. I know this, but was falling into my own behavior trap of repeating what had been successful for us. Variety of experience really makes a difference in socializing a pup. Especially as they hit new developmental stages. A few days ago, Loon entered the retinas are attached to the vocal chords stage. Or, as I call it the "Aliens have stolen my puppy" stage. She has a lot of drive, and prey drive is especially kicking in (Birds overhead, planes, leaves flying on the wind, etc) which also means she is more hyper aware of environmental changes...like any real Border Collie should be. While a complacent or non-reactive puppy may be normal for many breeds, most BC's are going to react to new t