Big Z: O-Town with a Side of Scrambled Brains…

The Big Z has moved into a new phase—hopefully, one that won’t last for long. Last night she didn’t want to walk on the cement floor or matting. “OMG! What is this stuff? Are you sure I’ve walked on this before???” I figured that I’d be in for a real thrilling class.

She settled on her mat and then seemed OK. While waiting around for something to happen we played tug with the ball, practiced sits and downs, and short recalls followed with more games of tug. It seemed that we were doing our own thing most of the evening. We even foosed with great attention on me/the ball. “Ut-oh!” “I forgot that this was some strange floor. I’d better put on the brakes!” “Whoops! Never mind—now I remember.”

Recall on long line: Nice One was holding the long line tonight. This time I WARNED her that The Big Z will come flying to me and to let her fly. What did she do? She held her back!!! Who holds a dog back once it is called? For round two, I made certain to tell Nice One NOT to hold her back. Not that the Big Z noticed—she kept right on coming. Nice One says that we certainly don’t have a problem with our recalls.

We also “taught” our dogs to platz from a chair. Big Z looked at me like, “Why are we doing this here? Don’t you do enough of this crap at home?”

Even though we had the attack of the monster floors, it was actually a very good night. Her focus and work during class was great. I am pleased with her progress. The monster floors will pass…