Cote is now 14 months old & 60+ lbs. My black lab, Sophie is 4 years old & 45 lbs. They charge out of the house on theur walks, right into a wrestling match with Sophie usually dominant in the take downs of Cote. Helps get rid of all the overnight energy they build up. I keep Sophie on a 30ft long line cause she would take off for the North Pole with Cote right behind her otherwise. This works even if I don't have hold of the other end (she doesn't realize that)
Other morning my neighbor drove into his driveway in his ATV after feeding his cows. Cote went charging at him barking with excitement but with my calling, he stopped right at the edge of my driveway. I was so oroud that he does know the boundaries of my farm. Later that same morning while we were still out walking, the guy from my new insurance company came to tske photos of the outside of the house. Both dogs went running toward him but instead of being protective they did a couple of barks then went to sniff him out & they were fine as I told them it was all ok.
Today on our morning walk, a bicyclist came by on our country road. Cote got half way across the front field. I called & he came running back. Sophie had absolutely no interest.
I have not done formal training with the recall so wasn't exactly sure how well it would work when really needed but it sure was a pleasant surprise that what training I have done seems to be working. Lol....I don't recall Cote by his name. Lol....I sound more like my neighbors that called their cows & he comes to "pup, pup, pup, pup,pup puppy^". His breeder always called the puppies that way so I just kept doing it. Definitely a distinct call he hears & it works. Not sure it would be acceptable in an obedidnce show ring but great for the farm.
My doggie walks are the highlight of my day. Aussie's are so darned smart & funny & he knows exactly how to communicate what he wants