March 29th, 2025

Puppy Training Update

I’ve been thinking about writing an Emma update—but hesitated, unsure how to explain her progress without diving into all things sheep and herding.

Then I realized: I can just tell you what’s improving. That paints a clear enough picture.

Bella and Emma holding the training sheep in the shed on March 23rd, 20

Emma used to struggle staying off her sheep when circling counterclockwise. I tried everything—my hat, my voice, even a flag—to get her to give the stock more room.

A few weeks ago, we had a breakthrough. She’s been consistently giving them space, so I raised the bar and asked her to fetch sheep out of sheds.

That’s a big ask for a baby dog. Sheep are "trying to escape", and I need her to calmly stay behind them, then walk up when I ask. Naturally, she started covering and jumping at anything that moved.

Instead of correcting her harshly, I looped some baling twine through her collar and gently guided her. When she tries to cut them off, I prevent it—and then reset, asking her again to walk up or get behind.

It’s a lot for a young brain, but every day she’s more thoughtful and responsive. I’m so proud of her progress.

Happy training!

Addi and The Girls