I told him his strategy was good only in the short run, for this is one smart pup who'll have the dog door figured out soon. Her cleverness and willingness to learn has me thinking of how many people don't seem to realize that puppyhood is the perfect time to form good habits that last a lifetime. Sometimes it happens because people are busy and time goes by so quickly when a puppy is growing up. Sometimes it happens because people still hold onto that long-discredited belief that training begins at six months. Training begins at birth, whether you participate or not.
Good breeders know it, and so do smart puppy-raisers.
She's learning to accept handling, especially of her feet and face, so she'll never give the groomer or veterinarian any problems. She's learning to get along with people and pets of all ages, and she's learning that sometimes she must stay alone, without destructiveness or whimpering. Most of all, she's learning her proper place in human society, so Robin can take her everywhere with confidence and pride. Even if my shoelaces have taken a bit of a battering. Soon enough, I tell them.