Bella and I had our 11th class (3rd advanced class) and it was difficult. We took a week off but had still been practicing nearly every day (although not as much because of the heat and insects).

Bella has a tendency to be a Jekyll and Hyde type of dog. On the streets with no distractions (other than insects) she is really good at heeling and pays attention (mostly). At class with 7-11 other dogs, that’s a whole ‘nother story.

I was impressed this class, though, because Bella seemed not as bothered by the other dogs as previous classes. However, she was a bit daydreamy and did not do too well with recalls or the sit-stay. But, she was super good at the stand-for-exam, which oddly enough, we hadn’t worked on AT ALL.

My homework is to work on recalls BIG TIME. These are to be done on leash and I need more enthusiasm with calling her name and praising when she reacts well. Her lack of good recalls is mostly my fault because I believe I confused her with having her wait to enter the house (which is tricky because the way the door closes on us).

Thus, I am going to work on these outside and inside, about 10 times each, every day. I need to get more intense with her training which is hard when she puts on the cute eyes and tail-wagging routine.

But Bella is a great dog and loves people so much that she doesn’t ever have to be perfect. Just so she can be well-balanced and kept safe.