Royal K9 Korner: Lil Molly - The Great Teacher

Our age range here at Royal K9 Korner is presently from 1 yr to 14 years with a pretty even number of each. Seniors are always present and the youngers have to abide by their rules or go play somewhere else. Fortunately we are set up with a lot of different areas for that to happen.
Sometimes it takes awhile for the youngens to gain control over themselves around the seniors. There isn't always someone with the same rank or energy level. When that happens I am the "shoe in" who will satisfy that need for a burn off of energy. We spend alot of time playing together until it's obvious the young one is ready to visit the seniors. There is no teacher greater than the dogs themselves. I try to make sure all dogs get the social interactions that is so important to their learning.
Even though our 10 yr old lil Molly, isnt a youngen, she still fits into the high energy category. Most times she plays along side the 2 yr olds with enthusiasm.
Then every once in awhile along comes someone who is still learning just basic manners.
Oh sweet Bentley boy. Our 1 year old border collie X. So full of energy who really wants to be top dog.

Bentley trying so hard to contain his enthusiasm while Lil Molly
shows as much patience with him as she can possibly muster.

"You will always be top dog to your mommy and daddy boy. Here at Royal K9 Korner you have to slip into the groove. We promise to make your visit enjoyable and full of fun things to do. You'll go home tired, happy and full."
Provided you can control yourself long enough to be let outdoors in "The Big Yard" with the others. Until we know everyone is safe and wont be antagonized by you little man, we have to stay indoors in a more controlled environment.

Lil Molly providing a clear signal for Bentley.
"Back away from me"
Princess MollyDawg has just provided that same signal
which was clearly heard by Bentley.

Our seniors are very good at displaying clear signals. There are lots of lessons given in case you haven't learned to recognize them yet. Refusing to listen to them will, without a doubt, ultimately result in a reprimand from your senior. There are always seniors watching!

I am always there as well, to monitor/supervise all interactions all day. I see behaviours that can easily be handled by the dogs themselves. When the youngens are finding it hard to settle in or just don't want to stop pestering, I have to step in and use my big dog voice. Guaranteed, that will result in a timeout and we start back at square one.

I love when those lessons have been understood and I can allow full access to the yard. It is so rewarding to everyone to see them run and play with everyone else in the pack. Young and old together. I just love it. Simple playful interactions where the youngens accept the seniors authority and just have FUN!

Rest time after a full blown ball playtime.
Check out those tongues!!

Are you coming in. The waters lovely!

Bentley enjoying a cool down time in the pool

Even though Bentley was only here for an overnight stay, I think he learned some great social skills. Working the brain is just as important as physical exercise. A full day of intense "who's the boss" play really leads to a wonderful night sleep. Hope to see you again soon Bentley. I know Lil Molly will be waiting!