Star is learning

Star is definitely learning. See what we mean?

Her burgundy coat says it all. One day, she'll wear one that says 'Hearing Dog', and it will grant her access to all sorts of places such as supermarkets, restaurants, libraries and so on. So, it's important that she learns how to behave wherever her deaf partner might want to go.

Above, she executes a perfect 'wait'. See how attentive she is? She's almost standing to attention! This means that, if her future deaf partner needs her to be patient, for example when getting out of the car or waiting in a queue, she'll behave impeccably.

Oh, and her burgundy coat should say 'I'm learning to be a hearing dog', but that doesn't all fit on our smaller dogs. Cute!

More shopping now, and she's still definitely learning!

We're not sure those socks would suit her though. Maybe a nice thick winter coat?

This time Star shows how well she can settle too. This is waiting, but a bit longer. It's the kind of thing she would do during a nice, long break in a cafe for example - her deaf partner will get her to settle quietly under the table, and Star knows that the 'right' thing to do is just to zone out, and be no trouble to anyone. Just watch the world go by Star! Take it easy!

Out and about in the shopping centre, notice how well she walks on her lead. Not too tight, not too slack, she's very happy just to trot alongside her Volunteer Puppy Trainer Grace.

And what do good little Stars get?

A treat, of course!

It's how we train our dogs. They get a reward for doing the 'right' thing. The 'wrong' thing is just ignored. So, they learn that if they do that thing again, that they just did, and that they got a treat for, then if they do it again, they might get another treat. Eventually the behaviour is so ingrained, they just do it automatically, whether waiting, settling or walking nicely on the lead. We call it 'reward-based training' and it makes for a very positive experience for everyone concerned, trainer, volunteer and puppy alike.

And here's a 'super settle' in a church! Shhhhhh....!

But it's not all work, work, work. Here you go Star, a nice toy for being such a good girl.

And you want to carry it around in your mouth? Fair enough, it's your toy after all!

Star is, well, a star! And this is thanks to you for supporting her. Until next time, thank you once again for your kindness in sponsoring Star.