Let's face it - things don't always go the way we want.  It is important to keep your wits about you.  Don't lose your cool!  Step back an analyze the situation.  Try to figure out if it is something you are or are not doing or if there is some external element affecting the outcome.   It could be as simple as your voice inflection or body position.  It could be your dog isn't feeling well or a foreign smell in the air!  Is this review for your dog or are you trying to do something new?  If a new concept, have you properly introduced the concept by "teaching" before you have expectations for how your dog will train for it?

Remember:  If you can't figure it out, sometimes it is best to move on to something else or just simply call it a day. 

We are sad to say that we just dropped off Django for "summer camp".  Django is one of those guys who doesn't like it hot.  Since he is at such a crucial point in his training, we have decided to send him up with Tim Springer (Dynamic Retrievers) to train in Minnesota for the summer months.  Tim works with labs and goldens and has a customized approach (incorporates some Dog Whisperer philosophy) with an emphasis on the dog's psychology.  Tim trains gun dogs, hunt testers and field trailers.

Tim trained Django's father, so we are confident that he will understand Django and be able to provide him with a great training experience.  We will miss him though!  We plan to visit him at the end of May.

Proud momma alert!  Gaga just earned her WCX today.  For those of you who don't know...WCX stands for "Working Certificate Excellent".  It is awarded by GRCA and requires that a dog perform a triple on land (w/shot flier) and a double on water with an honor.  She did amazing - one of the best performances of the day if I may say so myself!

Gaga and Red had a fun weekend at the Great Houston Golden Retriever Club event - wildflowers a bloom!!!