Puppy Mayhem and Milestones: Week 7

Barley-controlled chaos – that pretty much sums up this whirlwind of a week! The Howlers have been busy, busy, meeting new people of all shapes and sizes every single day. With so many faces rotating through, it felt like Grand Central Station.

We managed to squeeze in a couple of group adventure walks, but next week we'll need to switch to individual outings. We're starting to lose the "follow-the-leader" stage, so it's time for one-on-one adventures. That means it could take a week to get every pup a turn — but hey, personalized service takes time!

What won't have time are pictures and blogs. We will be back with a small update, though it may be a bit late too.

Leash Lessons and Crate Wins: The Howlers have officially been introduced to the leash, and individual training is underway. They're already figuring it out like pros. And in a major milestone — they’re now voluntarily putting themselves to sleep in their crates after free play in the yard. That's some next-level independence!

Pack Politics: The pups are deep into sorting out the pack hierarchy. That means a bit more enthusiastic mouthing and the occasional skirmish, but it’s all part of growing up. No major power struggles yet — just the usual sibling drama.

Big News: The Howlers had their first sleepovers outside! They explored a new spot every day and really leaned into housebreaking. By the end of the week, they were spending most of their time outdoors and reliably using their designated potty yard — not their living space. Gold stars all around!

Next week will be the grand finale for Howling Through the Hollers — and it’s going to be a big one. We’ve got temperament testing, herding evaluations, structure assessments, and placements on the schedule. Plus, there’ll be individual attention, adventure walks, car ride introductions, and more.

The Howlers are experiencing our thunderstorm season. Of course, we all had to experience the mud. Much of it was cleaned up for the pictures, but muddy paws and muddy noses are still there in many.

Fed

Fed. Aw. My little ex-con. She may have left the Big House behind, but it definitely left its mark. She’s a tough girl now and values her freedom. That said, when nap time rolls around, if she’s not stretched out by my side, she’ll willingly tuck herself away back in the pen -in her crate.

She’s also got top-notch manners in the chow hall — a model inmate, you might say. But despite thinking she’s a seasoned O.G., her mom and big sister are quick to remind her that she’s still just a couple of months old. Fed’s getting pretty assertive with other dogs, and the adults have started correcting her for her, uh… direct approach.

Fed loves tagging along with the adult dogs and people. She will follow them to all kinds of new places. Leash walks, though? Not her thing. No amount of treats can convince her to move — but the promise of hanging with the big dogs? Now that’s motivation. Progress comes in all forms!

Sarge

Sarge – Bigfoot in Training

Sarge. Bigfoot. He’s the largest pup of the bunch — tallest, heaviest, and sporting some serious bear paws. This independent boy has a nice territorial guard and confidently explores new places with joyful abandon.

His hollering for attention has improved a lot this week. He's passed the microphone to Squire. We’re sticking to the plan of ignoring any barking for attention, and it’s starting to sink in. Sarge likes his attention in small doses — after he’s burned off most of his energy. He’ll breeze by for a quick scratch now and then, but real cuddle time only happens when he’s winding down for a nap.

He’s got his dad’s vibe, for sure — steady, confident, and low-key affectionate (he loves his people, but doesn't need to be with them). Bigfoot’s got big shoes to fill, and he’s well on his way.

Squire

Squire – The Heavy Metal Howler

Squire got hold of the microphone this week — and wow, did he make the most of it. While Sarge leans toward blues with the occasional rap break, Squire’s genre of choice is straight-up heavy metal. His screaming vocals really shine when he spots me doing chores and decides it’s time to bust out of the pen and play.

Otherwise, this pup has been a joy. He’s got fantastic eye contact and a moderate submissiveness toward both people and dogs. Plus, he’s got a solid follow, so the leash didn’t faze him one bit. A headbanger with manners — what more could you ask for?

Sammy

Sam – Sweet and Speedy

Sam was a busy girl this week! She loves to explore, but the moment she spots you — here she comes, grinning from ear to ear. She’ll stop by for a quick dose of affection and then — BAM — she’s off again on her next adventure.

She’s got great manners with the adults and would love nothing more than to curl up with them for a nap. Most of the grown-ups are too busy keeping watch, but Uncle Jax will sometimes indulge her. Raggedy Sammy is still as sweet as jelly — she melts right into your arms and has the kind of soulful eye contact that makes you feel like you’re the only person in the world.

Bush

Bush – Smooth Sailing

Bush is still hanging out in the middle-to-lower part of the pack, sailing along with his mellow, easygoing vibe. He’s got those soft, knowing eyes and a natural follow that makes working with him a breeze. Always eager to please (especially if treats are involved), he dives into new places with happy curiosity and loves to play.

He’s a fun, steady presence — though he can get a little mouthy when he’s overstimulated or running on empty. Even so, his good manners continue to shine through.

JT

JT – Mr. Mellow

JT is still the laid-back guy of the group, happy to roll with whatever comes his way. He loves to snuggle, explore, play with the pack, or just chill solo with a stick to chew on. He’s got a nice problem-solving streak and reliably puts himself to bed in the crate — no fuss, no drama. A solid middle-of-the-road pup with a sweet, steady nature.

Ches

Ches – The Viking Explorer

Ches is the grand explorer — always charting new territory with the confidence of a seasoned adventurer. He’s usually leading a few siblings on a raid, Viking-style. Potted rose bushes? Pillaged. Grooming equipment? Stolen and dragged off. Pile of pallets? Dug under and conquered. Whatever Chet sets his sights on, he dives in with reckless abandon, guided by his nose and a sense of adventure.

Punch

Punch – The Playful Diplomat

Punch held steady in the middle of the pack this week. He’s got sharp eye contact, solid manners, and a natural follow. Whether he’s off on a Viking adventure or locked in a playful wrestling match with a brother (teeth involved, of course), Punch is in the middle of the action. He’s also a cuddler — happy to climb into your lap and hang out before heading off for more fun.

Mahala

Mahala – The Gentle Sweetheart

Mahala was all heart this week. She loves to just hang out and seek attention with calm, steady eye contact. She’s got a soft, easy follow and a peaceful presence — until her sister talks her into a little mischief. Calm and affectionate until playtime kicks in — then it’s game on!

Dolly

Dolly – The Quiet Challenger

Dolly spent the week sitting comfortably in the middle of the pack. She’s got a strategic streak, stalking around and occasionally challenging to climb the social ladder. She’s got great eye contact, a relaxed manner when seeking attention, and a charming habit of plopping her butt down to get picked up. Otherwise, she’s out exploring with her brothers, mingling with the chickens, or trying to talk the adults into a game.