Bella's first walk

We have been waiting and waiting and waiting to take Bella on her first walk.  Yesterday was the day.  After getting her last set of shots the Vet told us to wait five days and then we could take her. It was a happy time for Bella that's for sure. She ran and jumped and ran some more.  At one point she pulled out of her collar--it's a little too big, but at the rate she is growing it won't belong till it fits just right.

This dog of ours is quite a bit of work.  Because it is so hot outside she really needs to learn how to be an inside dog.  We have had other dogs and I have learned from sad experience that you have to be very strict with these dogs and not allow them to be in the areas that are off limits. So far Bella has had the chance to wonder around very briefly the tile area of our down stairs. I want to teach her to have a spot that she quietly lays in while she is in the house.  

She is getting better at listening too. Every once in a while though she gets a wild look in her eye and looks from side to side to see if anyone is watching then makes a crazy run for the living room trying to evade us.  She also is a big fan of the area near Josh's high chair. She knows there is bound to be a crumb or two for her to sneak(more like 10)

Grant enjoys teaching her new things. Tyler has managed to teach her a sign language type command that she responds to through the glass door. He puts his hand into a fist and says down. When she jumps at the glass window from the outside we can just hold up our fist so she can see it and she usually sits down.  We have to tell her over and over, but the fact that she understands is encouraging to us. 

The Vet said that she is a sweet puppy that means well, but just needs a little training. She is very happy and hyper.  Spencer feels very sad when she is outside alone.  I do too.  I like to see Spencer's compassion.  

The boys both have jobs to do with her. Unfortunately for Spencer his job is to pick up after her in the yard. Grant sweeps of the porch that she makes a mess of and gives here food and water along with practicing some training stuff with her each day. Bella grabbed onto Spencer's shirt and tore some skin so I have kept her away from Spencer for now till she calms down.