I have been working with Abby using a spring loaded pinch collar I got from my friend Kent Forbush at Snow Canyon Outfitters. It is a studded leather training collar with a length of metal banding sown in to help the collar spring back to the open position. I have been impressed with the effectiveness of the design. The dog only feels pressure when you pull against the collar. When she does what she is supposed to the collar springs open and Abby feels nothing. It has worked great for training heal and whoa commands. I have also been using it to reinforce the come command, especially when there are distractions. Abby is coming along nicely despite spending another 21 days in lock-down after her heat cycle returned a few months too early.

Annie is growing up and getting to be quite a spunky little brittany pup. This week we took her on our run up the mountain with the ATVs. She did well and stayed right with the pack for the first mile or so. Then she got a little tired so I let her ride in her kennel on the four-wheeler with me. She had a little scuffle with my female GSP Abby. They are both very strong-willed and will eventually have to duke it out to see who’s boss. She will be one-year old next fall when hunting season comes and I hope to enjoy a great first season with her. The trainer says he likes her boldness and thinks she will be a good hunter.