I realised today just how dependable, and trustworthy Monty has become on walks. We went to nearby Shustoke reservoir, it's a nice 45 minute circular walk, the dogs can dip in and out of the water at most points, and a small field at the end for some ball games. It says lead on for dogs, but it's one of those rules that nearly everyone breaks in an understated British way.
We thought it would be quiet today - grey, mizzly, misty, mid afternoon, though the water was like a millpond - but it was as busy as I've seen it in the summer. So Bear had to be on lead all the way round. He was an idiot, natch. But Monty is just so good now. He ignored the ducks and other water fowl, joggers, big groups, squealing children, and most other dogs - he got caught unawares by a little dog running up behind him and got a bit frisky for about three seconds, but that was it.
When a dog was passing, we just did LAT with both of them (it's hilarious, Monty joins Bear in a sit as soon as he hears the words LAT! even though it isn't even meant for him)
the only thing he's rubbish at is patience - we sat on a bench for five minutes as my foot was hurting, and he lets out a loud 'Woof' every 30 seconds to let us know it's time to move on.
Rubbish video here - you can't even see the people for the mist