Cooper is doing such a good job. He hasn't needed a leash since yesterday and only needs a mild reminder to stay in a given command. Sometimes he only needs a verbal "No!" to get back on track.
His radius training is also going well. He willingly comes back to check in if I cue that he has gone too far (utilizing the vibration function of his collar). I was also able to stop him when he started chasing a critter, though this did require a higher correction than normal to turn him around. His prey drive is still fairly pronounced.
He stayed on Placemat for an hour and a half today with only two mistakes. One when his friend, Ace came into the room, and once when I was bustling in the kitchen and curiosity got the better of him. But he was easy to correct and re-place.
Tomorrow we are doing more work on all of his commands. And fine tuning little things. He is in what we call the "proofing" stage which means he knows it all, now I am just making things harder for him and making sure he understands that commands always are to be followed, not just when distractions are low.
This is a bright young dog who is quick to figure things out. He picks new commands up quickly but he then starts trying to work out how far he can push things and how he can get away with shenanigans. But he wants to get praised so he is easy to get back on track. His obedience will easily become a way of life if his folks are firm with his new rules when he goes home.
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