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Dog Training

A Reunion with Luna. Working with Shy or Fearful Puppies

May 13, 2024
by Hillary Alexander

Meet Luna, a Jumpstart Puppy graduate who mastered several challenges we frequently see with shy and fearful puppies. Join us as we practice, “Go Say Hi!” – first in the Nursery, then in a mall.

To meet Luna today you’d never guess how fearful she was during during her first visit to the Nursery. My heart goes out to puppies that try to get small and not be seen. Bits of chicken later, she sat for me and moved away from Julie, yet I could tell we’d need a second visit. It’s always important to go slow with shy or fearful puppies. They need time to watch and decide when it’s time to come forward. When she did, we were surprised to discover she had a boisterous personality and lots of energy.

We shot this video a few days after Luna’s graduation to do some, “Go Say Hi!” before heading to a local mall for some real-life practice. This is a skill I teach our puppies so they greet people calmly – instead of jumping. Got a puppy that loves to love? If your puppy jumps on friends and pulls to meet new ones it’s time to channel that charm. Check out my course called, “You Had Me at Hello.” where puppies learn to walk over, sit, look up, and wait. No more barking, lunging, or jumping. You’ll love it. Your puppy will love, too.

 

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Schedule a Visit to the Jumpstart Nursery.

If you live in or near Marin, California this is a great way to socialize your puppy. Nursery Visits are by appointment only and take place on Wednesday at 3:00PM.

Learn More About Our Programs

  • Jumpstart is a daylong, 4-week program for puppies 8 weeks to 6 months old, specializing in socialization, training, and potty skills. You can learn more about the Jumpstart Puppy Program HERE.
  • Teen Tune-Up is a 4-week, small group training experience that blends obedience refreshers, enrichment, play, and real-world practice to keep training relevant, effective – and fun! You can register for Teen Tune-Up HERE.

  • Live near Marin, California? We invite you to visit with your puppy. You can schedule your visit to the Nursery here.

  • Live far away? You can still join us in the Jumpstart Nursery via online Puppy Boot Camps and Courses.