Use this space to discuss training issues -- brag about successes, seek advice on setbacks or just report in on how things are going.

Here's what's up with my pack:

Eddie: I already bragged about this on a comment to the last training talk topic, but he passed his Delta Society therapy dog recertification with a perfect score last Saturday. It's a one-point improvement over his initial certification test two years ago, and he's now qualified to work in "complex" situations. Even better, he got an identical score with my wife, Kelly, as handler. I was pleased because Kelly, who's not his trainer, got better feedback from the evaluator. He listened to her better on a "leave it" command, and with me he did the boot-scoot-boogie during a heel. Reminder to self: Never have him groomed the day before an evaluation. He was obviously sensitive back there.

Jillie: I really need to get back into an obedience class. She's such a sponge for knowledge, and I haven't taken the time to work with her individually. She picks up everything I teach her, but I'm not spending the time with her. Fortunately, a new class starts next month. I can't wait.

Rusty: I don't write about him much because the only training we do is trying to break him of bad habits. But he's gotten very good at loose-leash walks, coming when called immediately and stopping the barking when asked.