Neri,

Like you, I found the dog showing environment to be way to serious, competative, & yes, expensive. I actually like to train for the fun of it like you. It is cute also at the ranch because one girl just got a new horse & she is training it to bow by using food to make him go down on his knee...It is so cute to watch. I also enjoy the training that just comes naturally with the imprinting I did with my 7 month old filly....she followes me like a puppy, nuzzles me for hugs, & just naturally cute things. I do have to train her better for the halter because she is out in the field with 3 year olds that are teaching her bad habbits. I think it is good to find out what works with each animal & use that to reinforce their actions.

It is sooooo much fun working with animals...love every minute I'm with them...glad to know others enjoy it so much too.

Debbie