We're Keeping the Dog

First, Doc was really good in his arena lesson this morning. He's picking up the correct cantor lead every time.

In the afternoon, a dog trainer from The Maverick Way Dog Training Center came to the house to evaluate Flash and get us started on his training. She agreed with us that he needed basic obedience and said that he seemed less insecure since the last time she'd seen him. He is doing very well here and settling in nicely. She showed us how to do some of the initial training, which Flash picked up easily. Dennis and I, on the other hand, had to write everything down so we would remember what to do and how to do it.

This morning we took our regular walk around the ranch with Mom and Honey; then there was the training session in the back yard; and later we took a walk to the gate and back, about a half mile, and played tug with Flash's favorite toy when we got back to the house. Flash was done in for the night, lying at our feet at first, then moving to his indoor crate.

Breakthrough! Tonight when we put Flash out for the night, he didn't whine or scratch at the door once! I think he knows he will have another fun day tomorrow. Another breakthrough: Dennis bought a $199 dog door and I heard him say to the dog, "This will probably be the last night you spend outdoors," or something like that. Things are working out and it looks like we're keeping the dog.