Like a Duck to Water

People often talk about how someone took on a task like a duck to water. Sadly, this was not the case with Dasher when he went to hydrotherapy. He loves swimming but is very dubious of the ramp. Thanks to skilled handling, our hydrotherapist persuaded Dasher to get into the water, and then he was off. He went in lame, but after several sessions, his limp has become less pronounced, and I am starting to feel hopeful about the future for Dasher. I have also started him on simple cavalletti exercises, stepping over poles, and some natural cavalletti with walks in our local woods. I am pleased to announce that he is showing improvement every day. I am unsure if he will be fit enough to compete at this stage, but I am more hopeful than I was three weeks ago. I have friends in the dog training industry who have been highly encouraging. Whatever the case, I am continuing his core education that every dog needs - to come when called, walk nicely on the lead, settle when asked, and greet people and other dogs politely. He is nine months old today, and I am so pleased to report that his recall is brilliant, even if I say it myself. He loves to play and has learned that all good things happen when he is close to me. His lead walking has had to be curtailed originally because of his cage rest, and I was told on no account to let him pull as he recovers from his operation, so I am concentrating on good lead manners. He doesn’t pull in certain situations, but he forgets himself when he is excited to meet people. But I am game-training a good solid sit and working on his impulse control. I am sure we will catch up soon with his litter mates, who are already doing great things. 

The most important thing for Dasher now is to have his breed needs met, and as he is a Border Collie, I am utilising all his natural desires in a game-based training plan. So scent games are a favourite for him at the moment, and I often hide his favourite toy in the woods to not only slow him down so he doesn’t hurt himself but tire out his little brain as he follows the scent trail I have left for him to follow. 

If you have a dog that has to be confined, why not try out the scent games I describe in my book?