I walked Pooh into a meeting with three strangers today, using a leash and a bag of treats. She was her typical skiddish self and would have preferred to not enter the room. I joined the others who were already seated around the table and got Pooh to settle down next to me. I removed the leash and assumed she would stay close. As the meeting went on she laid down in various positions around the table and monitored the attendees at a distance. At one point I looked down and Pooh was standing nearby letting the woman next to me pet her! This woman was a complete stranger, but Pooh looked calm...not as joyful as a typical dog receiving that much attention would be, but still relaxed enough that I didn't interfere. I think she may have let someone else in the meeting pet her too. This was an ideal training opportunity because the strangers in the room were not focused on Pooh at all and she does a lot better with strangers if we aren't at home. It's strange how progress can sneak up on you when you aren't even trying!
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