Cooper is a handsome chap

As per the title of this Puppy Pen Pupdate, let's just admire Cooper for a moment!

He's definitely turning into a fine looking Labrador. That sleek, glossy coat is something to behold. One day, his future deaf partner will be very proud to have such an attractive pal!

He's brains as well as beauty. Here he is practising what we call 'impulse control'.

It's very important that our puppies don't just go with their immediate instincts all the time. There can be many instances where their deaf partner will need them just to wait and be patient, for example when getting out of the car, waiting for public transport, sitting in the vet's waiting room and so on. 

Then there are occasions where puppies just need to learn to relax, and not jump up excitedly or rush across the road to greet a friend.

So, Cooper is being taught that, if he resists the temptation to eat the treats on his paws, he's being a good boy. So, he'll wait... and he'll wait... and he'll get a fuss and a cuddle - and get to eat the treats!

You can read more about impulse control on our Dog Blog.

We'll leave Cooper still looking at his treats while we show you how great he's been in other areas of training.

He's already visited London, and been on the underground.

He did really well. Just took it all in. These places can be overwhelming for dogs, with so many sights, smells and sounds, but Cooper has been so well brought up by Volunteer Puppy Trainer Clare that he can take on new experiences with confidence.

And here they are! Looking quite the dynamic training team.

This was during a fundraiser at a local garden centre. Our volunteers are so brilliant, giving their time not just to train our puppies, but to raise awareness and funds so that we can help even more deaf people.

Cooper was brilliant too! How could you resist...?

After a hard day's fundraising, it was time for a cuppa for Clare in the cafe, and a settle for Cooper.

Again, this is Cooper showing off his training. It's called a 'settle' because it means Cooper understands he can just keep himself to himself in a cafe or restaurant, or even on a train or bus. There's no need to bother anyone, it's fine just to be a quiet, well-behaved Cooper. Clare has done a magnificent job.

Another thing to notice is his burgundy coat. It currently says 'I'm learning' (or, in the case of this photo, ƃuᴉuɹɐǝl ɯ,I) but one day it'll be a full hearing dog coat, announcing to people that his partner is deaf. This will change situations around, from ignorance and anger to awareness and friendliness.

Meanwhile...

We promise you Cooper was eventually allowed to eat the treats!

And then he had a snooze with his best pal Watson, whom you've already met. But, here's the question: which is which? We honestly don't know, because Cooper is a big boy now!

What a lovely photo to end this Puppy Pen with.

We hope you've enjoyed this latest look at Cooper's life. We enjoyed putting it together! It's your kindness that has made all this possible. Until next time, thank you for sponsoring Cooper!