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Comment by Denis J. on December 23, 2013 at 7:34am

Oh yes, I learned quick.

I still have the scrarr around my bicep when I tried to wrap the leash around it to break it, while I'm handling the poop bag and pick up.  He took off after a leaf and a quick "zip" and it stung for quite a while.     I'm especially carefull around sidewalks and snowbanks now, not to let him go in traffic if it's too long.

But it's perfect in trails as it gives him the freedom to explore (about 25') while still being attached to me.   He his a metal "quick detach" collar so the cold won't make it a risk to break if he pull too hard.  Usually only when he sees another dog to play with.

Comment by Judith Andre on December 22, 2013 at 1:11am

Denis..I'm sure you probably know this, but be very careful of flexi leashes..they can really cut your hand if you try to grab it when they take off.  In the winter, gloved hands are a good thing.

I agree...3-4 hrs sounds like a lot.  They need to learn to entertain themselves.

Comment by Denis J. on December 20, 2013 at 11:57am

I'm a strong beleiver in where the breed as come for over the past few 1000 years.   Remember these dogs were bred to be family companions, living on farm and working alongside their masters for any chores, herding, chasing the cats, whatever else to keep them in check.

So for me, they have already built in Genes to make them great outdoor companion and if they are tired they will usually lay down during a walk and look at you.   Wally will just lay on the cool grass to have a breather.    He's usually about 15feet in front of me with the extendable leash but by the end he is closer, to sometime walking right alongside.

Yesterday evening we ventured into snow covered trails and after being told by a couple of Cross Country skiers, to "not use THEIR trails"... shiiissh.. we then headed out in a snowshoe trail.   In my winter rubber boots it was a challenge but Wally just bounced over everything and loved to throw himself in deep snow.    He slept like a baby to which I had to wake him up this morning.

I agree as well, different activites, exposures to various things, smells, sound or being out in public will make him such a better companion.    I brought Wally to car shows and motorcycle rally's this summer to be exposed to crowds, sounds and smell.    Now, loud cracking engines or pops doesn't startle him that much.

I would worry that with a routine of playing that long would probably build on expecting the routine to continue.   If you were to not be able to do this anymore, would he be able to accomodate quick.    Having private time in his kennel during the day, even if you're home is also very good.    He's growing and will need to sleep.

Comment by Anna Morelli on December 20, 2013 at 10:49am

That was "environments", not environmental... sorry no way to edit :-D

Comment by Anna Morelli on December 20, 2013 at 10:46am

I may be in the minority on this one, but I feel that with puppies, as well as with young children, they have to learn to amuse themselves and not be only reliant on interactive play structured by a human (in the case of children, an adult).  To raise an intelligent young puppy or child, the key is more exposure to different situations, people, environments etc, in an age appropriate way.  This is best accomplished by including them in what you do and where you go when possible, without them being the center of attention, but rather a part of what is going on.  Some play is fun for the both of you, however allow him to also play on his own, if he so chooses, either with a chew toy or some other safe dog toy he likes,or to  simply have quiet time when you are busy with other things or just relaxing.  Just make sure he has enough physical exercise (walks are best) as a healthy outlet for his young energy.  Obedience training classes, daily practice sessions and, later other types of classes, also provide mental stimulation, new learning and exposure to new environmental and are very beneficial in more ways than one.