Lulu ain't worth a shit as a hunting dog, but she's turned in to a fantastic member of the pack. She was 18 months on Christmas and her obedience far surpasses Remi's when he was twice her age. We have a few more kinks to work out with her pissing/shitting in the garage if she's in there too long, but she won't do it in the crate or the house, so it's a compromise for now. She's also a little excitable when people come over, but won't jump. Just wants to get in your space and shove a nose in your crotch, especially chicks. She has a natural instinct to mark and break for a retrieve, but isn't interested in picking much up. I've not spent any time with her on that, so I deserve some of the blame on this not developing. I've also been able to train her without a collar because she's so treat driven. Remi gave two shits about treats, but hated being shocked. Even at 10.5, he'll hear the sound of that collar/remote and flinch. rotflmao
I have a life long buddy with a real stud of a hunting dog. He's full English lab (black) from Iowa and has strong hunting lines. Lulu should be in heat around November next year, so she'll be visiting my buddy's dog during that time. With her obedience and his hunting instinct, and pick of litter for me, I get my next male and a dog to take over where Remi left off. We'll be in the "new" house by then and the girls will be old enough to tag along and help with training. Lining up to be a nice chain of events.
Been a long evaluation, but we ended up with another good dog. Really one of life's joy and I feel sorry for people who can't know the joy, or don't understand it. Our pack is thankful for our new edition!
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