[alaskayorkie]

I said No. 2, very important but not essential, only because I've seen and owned a lot of terrific dogs that minded me well enough without obedience training. In fact, Eddie is the first dog I've ever felt absolutely had to have it. He wouldn't mind me. He'd run out in the street, he wouldn't come when called. For him, it is essential, and I've been delighted with the results so far.

Speaking of which, anybody ever heard of Attention Training? That's what Eddie's in now as a prelude to Agility. It's very simple so far. They're teaching "Watch." I hold a treat in front of his nose, then move it up to my side and tell him "Watch." He loves it, because it's easy and he gets lots of treats. I imagine it will be important in Agility.