Goals

Charlie practicing stay even when the shop door is open.

Charlie has developed a habit of running away, which creates stress for me and others involved. He's now restricted to being tied up or on the leash whenever he's outside. It's easy for me to feel discouraged. Then I have to remind myself how much progress we've already made and translate my expectations into small, obtainable goals. 

Mastered:

• sit
• shake
• wait for permission before eating
• enter and exit the vehicle
• potty trained (already mastered when I got him)

In progress:

• stay
• wait for an invitation to go in/out doors
• step away from the door while people are entering/exiting
• walk at my side without pulling on the leash
• appropriately greet visitors
• not chase cats

Beginning:

• go home (doghouse)
• lie down
• come (always, immediate) This should help with the running-away problem.
• respect property boundaries

Future:

• go to the shop
• go to Logan, Naomi...
• walk at my side without a leash
• fetch (my retriever has no desire to chase a ball)
• run beside a bike

For his few faults, which dominate my thoughts, Charlie has many good qualities. He is friendly dog who loves people, including children. He likes to ride in the car because he's with me and he knows he's going somewhere exciting. He doesn't bark much, doesn't make a mess, doesn't chew or destroy things, doesn't harass other animals (except cats) and eats whatever I give. All in all, I am very thankful for my dog. But, I am also very determined to continue training him.