Rubin, Merlin, Duke and Chopper are all working on learning the TURN command this week. All dogs are healthy, Chopper was treated for giardia and seems to be better, Rubin's ear infection is clear. All dogs are going to the NEADS fundraiser at the Black Dog on Martha's Vineyard on Wednesday.
Gerald is working on getting Rubin's obedience tightened up and his energy up for the work. I thought he was great before, but he is EXCELLENT now. I am impressed with Gerald's handling skills and his ability to wake Rubin up in the hot weather and get him to focus and want to play/work. His precision is much, much better, no more playing with fetch objects, tighter heel, better attention.
Merlin is also improving by leaps and bounds! The only sign of any sensitivity to people at all is his nervousness about his very long tail. Improving in a crowd, working on straight sits from recall, LEAVE IT, sitting for petting, take it, belly, recall out of play, hold, leash. He is leery when pulling open the door, doesn't love having it open toward him. Working on it.
Duke still needs to be diciplined every week by the resident GSD in Jamie's house, will still challenge any dog over a toy. However~when put in his place, even without the other dog putting a tooth on him, he screams and runs away. He's attending daycare weekely and we're waiting patiently for him to grow up ;) His work is beautiful, recall is still perfect under all circumstances. His stand and brace is amazing for a 7 month old dog. Handler has no ACL in his left knoww, if he is on the floor Duke will bark. If he tries to get up, Duke will brace without being told.
Chopper is doing so well, his attention is good and his eargerness to come to the work is commendable. Handler is gaining confidence and they're working well together.
