Zinnia and I had our first real walk together – no other dogs or people, just us, on a country road next to a big wide field. Zinnia ran all the way out into the middle, the farthest I’ve seen her run.
It was cold, she was distracted, there was a strong wind, I yelled out “come,” and she lifted her head like a deer, looking around for me. She found me, and I said, “Zinnia come,” this is the longest recall I’ve attempted with her and she came running, further cementing the deepening bond of trust and affection we have for one another.
Training a dog is rigorous and tiring, but it is one of the most rewarding things in the world for me. Zinnia came running, she sat, she laid down, she stayed (come and see)
Then we walked on a leash, I am training Zinnia to “heel” and she is getting the idea. She is a wonderful dog, loving, smart grounded and eager.
It is wonderful to have a dog I can walk with again, and trust so completely. I have much to be thankful for, but Zinnia is a precious gift.
Like Red, I don’t talk to Zinnia that much. I don’t need to. We speak without words.
You have mad training skills, Jon. Congrats to you and to Zinnia.
My Old English Sheepdog will be eight years old tomorrow and my Blue Heeler is 6. I say ‘come’ and they remember they’ve been out there for 20 minutes for one express purpose …. to go potty, so they trot off to spin around like whirling dervishes for another 5 minutes, looking for the optimum spot. I say ‘come’ again and they come to the bottom of the steps and look at me as though we’ve never met. By this time, I’m frustrated and they get “@#$%^ get in the #%$%^ house!
My hat is off to you, Sir.
too much talking is irritating to dogs..just a lot of white noise..good for you..