Week 89

Keeping things short and sweet, we never left the small practice field. As an accomplished Scottsman once told me; "just because you practice in the little field, doesn't mean you can't play with the big boys." Star's best work was done in practical work, and I was left with the impression of a very useful dog.

This week's lessons:

1. Don't let him get to you
2. The rolling stop
3. In and by

Here's an excerpt:

I like this dog more each time I work him, and today my "like" started in the driveway. We worked in the little field across from my house, and while walking to the field, Star would not lay down when asked and I asked more than once with some intention. Why would I like that, right? Well, here's why; Star has always been hesitant about things. He questions, he thinks about it first, and he worries. So, when I see him become his own man, so to speak, I like it. One size does not fit all. I do not treat one of my dogs like the other. They are all uniquely different with individual temperments, personalities and talents. When Price did this kind of thing as a youngster, I corrected him. Without it I never would have gotten a 1 whistle down from him. Likewise Mirk. He's 7 and still has to be reminded. Star, on the other hand, needs confidence and an environment where he can find his power, so I allow the California stop from time to time, such as on the driveway this morning. Letting him have the reins and running through me a bit will help put the "dog" in him, as they say.