I’m feeling better and clearer about my training with Bud, the newest addition to the canine line-up at Bedlam Farm. He has challenged me, in new and different ways.

We’ve worked through distractions – Fate helps me there, and the sheep and donkeys. I’ve see some of my mistakes – I was anxious, too many words, etc.

I wasn’t being clear, he thought everything I said was a release command. I’ve learned that Bud is smart and  trainable, up to a point. He pays attention, wants to please, loves treats.

This has turned into a positive experience for both of us. He is a quick study in some ways, there is the terrier distraction and willfulness, I will have to be patient and focused to get through that.

Training is as much (or more) about people as dogs. The problem is almost always us, they generally know what they are doing.

This video is a milestone, there is more to do, but I am confident and eager to work with Gus. I think he feels the same way. We both are having fun, we both feel successful.

In my life with dogs, training never stops. It is not something I can do by watching TV, or reading other people’s books. I have to do it myself, me and the dog. Bud and I are a great team, especially when I apply myself.