Today, The Pack and I spent the afternoon in High Park. We toured the trails (off-leash) and ended the day by spending some time at the off-leash area with some other dogs. This gave them a chance to socialize more outside the pack once they were well-exercised and calm.

Every so often I will get the pack together in an area and ask for calm-submission. For example, taking a photo of The Pack is more than just sitting them in a line and snapping. It is an exercise where I am reminding them who is in charge. With plenty of distractions from the surrounding dogs, they must stay focused on me. This creates a challenge for The Pack to avoid the excited energy and become calm and submissive. It's activity is a great way for them to drain energy.

[images: sonny jarak for dog talk]