It was just Stark and the little ones tonight for our play date and training session.

A 5 month old Cocker Spainel, 1 Maltese mix and 1 Pug mix plus my big boy.

We were in the park near our house (which was FULL of people, kids, bikes, baseball games, etc..) doing some sit/stays, down/stays, and recalls when a group of people stopped to watch the "action". We continued on training and when we took a break for water and play (the dogs, not owners.. lol) the group of on-lookers came over to pet the dogs.

A few people went immediately to the little dogs and without asking permission started to pet and love on the little guys. When it was Stark's time to say hello the first question that came out of 2 people's mouths were, "does he bite?".

Talk about sterotypes.. lol.

Before I could respond the Maltese mix's owner replied, "No Stark doesn't bite, he's the most well behaved dog here. That little white one (his dog) that you are bending down petting right now had a toddler for breakfast though."

The lady jumped up and walked away. We all couldn't stop laughing.

Stark was definitely an ambassador for the breed tonight. We met atleast 20 strangers, 2 people in wheelchairs, a hoard of toddlers and Stark even met his first newborn baby whom he decided needed a toe wash.. lol. He also got to meet a bunch of new dogs and several kids who thought that sharing their soccerball with him was the funniest thing that ever happened.. until he popped it.. lol. They gave it to him.

I have to say, as Stark matures, he is definitely making me proud. Good boy Stark!

WTG Stark!

Way to go, Stark!!!! I bet he knew he did good

He really does have you to thank for his ways! You do an awesome job with Stark!

Way to go Stark!

Yay Stark!

Thanks everyone.

Jane, thank you for saying that. It means a lot. I have really put a lot of time and effort (and a tone of love) into this dog. He really made me work for a little while there when he was reactive to everything! in sight. He is just a super amazing dog and I couldn't have asked for a better puppy.

It's funny, while at the park there is a guy who comes to play the bag pipes, all of the other dogs were barking like crazy.. Stark was rolling in the grass and laid down to relax and fell asleep to it!

He also heard some fire crackers go off last night across the street, our neighbours dog started going insane, barking, cowerdering, etc.. while Stark's ears perked and then he went on his way.

I am just so proud of the dog he is becoming. I know we have a long way to go still with training and socalization is an ongoing aspect of dog ownership, but for a goofy, butthead, 13 month old male puppy, he sure is amazing.

Good boy Stark!

I really had to laugh about the Maltese mix eating a toddler for breakfast.

Good boy, Stark. He's going to be a great boy!

You are a wonderful mommy! So many people get gsd's and have no idea what it takes to help a pup develop in to a happy, healthy and balanced dog. They go through so many phases in the first year--Stark is Zuzu's age and I can barely keep up with her shy stage, butthead stage (mercifully brief) 'fraidy cat stage, etc. It's enough to make us doubt ourselves but we have to take a deep breath and regroup. Stark just shines and is always a joy to read about, or better yet, have videos of!

Just be sure to tell his admirers on the street that you put time in to helping him be all he can be!

And...are there no pictures???

LOL, I love the Malti's owners response. Too funny. And great job Stark

What a great story!! Stark shows his true colours, and what a beautiful rainbow they are!

Great job Stark!!! And what a great mom you are. His good behavior is a reflection of all your hard work!

Nice work!

great job to both you and Stark!

loved the comment by the Maltese mix's owner

Good job you two!

I always get the "does he/she bite" question....So annoying. lol