Socialization, Training, and Cuteness Overload

Our second week with Churro has been a whirlwind of fun, learning, and absolute ridiculousness. From tackling new experiences to refining some training basics, it’s been a joy to see our little golden fluffball grow more confident each day. Here’s what we’ve been up to:

A Windy Start

A front moved in, bringing some serious Colorado gusts, and I saw it as the perfect chance for some wind exposure. 💨 We went outside, ears-a-flapping, and Churro had his first encounter with our (ACTIVE) wind chimes. At first, he gave them the side-eye (I mean, they were really loud), but within minutes, he decided they weren’t worth his concern and completely ignored them. We didn’t interfere - just let him explore and adjust.

Later that day, we introduced Churro to a travel crate in preparation for his first vet visit next week. (I’ll be driving solo and don’t want him loose in the car.) To make sure he wasn’t scared of the crate, we set it up in the family room and let him investigate at his own pace. I think it’s going well. 😊

But new experiences can be exhausting. 🥹

Milestone moment: By afternoon, he’d wandered into his “daytime crate” on his own for a nap. Hallelujah! 🙌

Ice Ice Baby & Mischief

Leftover ice from the party became a fun exposure exercise. Knowing Colorado winters can be unpredictable in terms of WHEN we’ll get snow, I dumped the ice in our shower to let Churro and Queso experience the slippery, melty texture. Both boys were curious, though Queso seemed a little unimpressed compared to Churro’s cautious excitement.

Churro also showed off his mischievous side - sneaking a slipper when we accidentally left the closet door open. A reminder to puppy-proof everything!

I came out of the bathroom to find a new window ornament.

Budding gardener:

Kitchen helper:

Sous chef:

Fund & Games and Clicker Training

With full supervision (since I didn’t want him to choke), I introduced Churro to a ping pong ball. The light, bouncy ball was a source of endless entertainment as he pawed at it and tried to figure it out. His curiosity is endlessly entertaining!

We also started clicker training this week, and his very first exposure was “paws up” in preparation for his first self-portrait. (LOL, priorities, right??)

I didn’t end up using the "paws up" command or the puppy stump for the final portrait though! 😉

Even though it was a self-portrait, I recruited help to get the dogs' attention! 😁

Churro has expressed that modeling is exhausting. 🥰

Gentle playtime with big brother Queso:

Later, we started working on more practical skills in familiar areas - indoor leash work, sit, down, and touch - with short, focused sessions and plenty of rewards. I also kept it up with paws up, and I grabbed what was handy – a tissue box (and I learned that tissue boxes are NOT the best training props for puppies, lol), but it’s all part of the fun! He’s learning quickly, though he gets frustrated if we move too fast. Patience is key. I’ve compiled a video of our training work this week, which includes my mistakes and mis-clicks. 😝

First Leash Adventure

Backtracking just a bit, Churro wore a leash for the first time this week as we ventured into the front yard. While we were waiting for the recycling truck (hello, noisy exposure!), our mail carrier Annie stopped by and immediately fell in love with Churro. He soaked up all the attention - and even got some snacks during his first front-yard exploration.

Crate Upgrades & Wine Dog Aspirations

Churro’s daytime crate got a makeover today. We removed the divider and added a cushy pad to make it cozier, hoping for longer naps. He seemed much happier, immediately snuggling into his new setup.

Things took a surprising turn later that day though, lol:

Churro discovered the kitchen dish towel and decided it was the perfect toy. The towel happened to say “Wine Dog,” so I jokingly texted my friend Heidi about Churro’s budding career. She said he could be an honorary Crux dog if we snap some photos with wine bottles. Challenge accepted! 🍷

Foggy Mornings & Vacuum Friends

The day started with thick fog, and Churro took it in stride. He was unbothered as we explored the yard, proving once again how adaptable he’s becoming.

We also began desensitizing him to the vacuum—our tried-and-true method of “the vacuum poops food” worked like a charm! Dropping kibble as we run the vacuum around made it Churro’s new best friend.

Snow Day & Cozy Moments

We woke up to a dusting of snow, and Churro loved it! He happily munched on frosty grass, thoroughly enjoying the chilly yard.

Later, we gave him a baby carrot, and his puzzled reaction was priceless - he had no idea what to do with it. 🥕

The week ended on the sweetest note. While Churro napped on the couch, Queso made the move to snuggle up closer. Seeing the bond grow between these two melts my heart every time. 🥰

Final Thoughts

Churro’s second week has been a mix of training breakthroughs, hilarious antics, and heartwarming moments. His growing confidence with new experiences and the relationship he’s forming with Queso, he’s already proving to be such a special addition to our family.

Next week, we’re tackling more public outings, crate training, and (fingers crossed) refining some of our training cues. Stay tuned for more puppy updates!

Ginger Wick Photography is an award winning dog photographer specializing in creating beautiful custom artwork of dogs & their people. Based in Parker, CO serving the Denver area.