The streets are busy this morning.
Humans walk quickly, distracted by their own thoughts. Dogs walk beside them. In front of them. Sometimes directly in their way.
You move calmly among them, tail high, posture impeccable.
This neighborhood is coming along nicely.
“Oh, sorry. Come on, girl.”
The human stops short when you pause in the middle of the sidewalk.
Good.
They wait.
You take your time. You sniff a lamppost. You assess. You move on only when you decide it is appropriate.
“No. Heel.”
Further down the street, another human tugs gently at a leash.
You stop and turn your head.
“Sorry. She’s just… excited.”
Much better.
Training takes patience. Repetition. Consistency.
You continue your walk, observing everything.
Humans stepping aside without being asked.
Voices lowering automatically when dogs pass.
Hands reaching for treats without conscious thought.
The troops are behaving.
“Your Grace. The King will be pleased. Compliance levels are improving.”
A familiar Dogfolk approaches, posture alert, careful not to be overheard.
You flick an ear. You glance back at the humans trailing obediently behind their dogs.
They have been very good lately.
And very good behavior should always be encouraged.