Top of the Class!

A few weeks ago, in a mad moment, I pulled off a perfectly harmless but redundant telephone wire which had been stapled along the skirting board round the bay window and painted over. And so I had to look at the ripped paintwork and regret having done that...

Today I decided that I could stand it no longer, and so I went and got paint, and I'm re-painting the whole window. Also, the new secondary windows are being installed next week, and so there's a bit of touching up required before then.

Today was Archie's big day! Mark the dog trainer was making his return visit. After a shaky start (barking hysterically at a passing dog as soon as we went out) Archie was eventually top of the class! (mind you, he's the only one in it...)

Mark took his dogs out of the car and used them as stooges. The aim was that Archie could look at another dog, while on the lead, and not bark. The secret is in timing the rewards (using a clicker). And high value treats - real chicken breast meat. And lots of it.

Mark and his dog would appear from behind a car, Archie would look at the dog, make the decision NOT to bark, but look up at JR for a reward. Mark and his dog - he had three (another five at home) - which he kept changing over. They kept getting nearer each time, and Archie coped really well.

After an hour (which flew by) he was able to walk quietly up to the other dog, while on a loose lead, have a wee sniff, then come away. We were SO impressed. Mark is amazing - he just understands dogs and how their little minds work.

Still a lot of work to do though...

In this shot, which was quite early in the lesson, Archie is letting a dog walk past him! This has NEVER happened before. He's gobbling up treats thrown on the ground on a 'Find it!' command.

A successful day all round!