Felix Board and Train day 9

Well, Mr. Felix is just about ready to head home. He knows his commands, we have tested him under difficult conditions. He has been able to stay on Place while a stranger entered the house (he needed a verbal "NO" once when he started to get up) and can maintain his composure around other dogs, cats and horses.
We took his go-home video today. We have him on video doing a good job on his long line with another dog near by and some off leash obedience in the training room. In the house he has been very charming though he is a little bit weary of strange men.
He is not done learning. His owners will be charged with his upkeep. They need to take him on walks and expect flawless obedience. He won't -be- flawless but if they have higher standards for him he will backslide less. His owners will also need to invite dog-savvy guests over to let Felix get some practice being on Placemat. There are some strategies I will give them for helping him bond quickly to someone like a pet sitter or family member who will be staying with them for an extended period of time.
Felix is such a special dog with a great big heart. I will miss his big goofy face but he is definitely ready to go home to be with his doggy sister and his people again.