CanineCoach! I envy your memory
Yes, this was the lil bugger who decided to leave the ring back in Dec. 2006 (his first trial with a NQ).
Busta turned 2 years on Feb. 15. He entered the Novice obed. in July and placed 4th, gaining full points for the recall--the very exercise that he NQ'd on a few months earlier.
Yes, I agree, he needs proofing to be reliable. I would NEVER, NEVER do a recall off-leash in an otherwise public space, because I simply don't trust him. I took him off leash on Sunday because I knew the other dog owners, and they knew Busta (and someone would grab him if he was about to get into trouble before I reached him). Furthermore, we were in a large fenced-off field.
Consistent proofing is a challenge for me with my work schedule and the distance I live from good places to work him. Furthermore, I'm on my own with training. I do not like the jerk-and-pull methods currently being used here, and have been using the clicker method. HOWEVER, I'm currently one of two people doing clicker training in Jamaica! So, I'm really on my own. Busta's my cross-over dog.
It's a slow process for me here, but I won't give up. Busta's a smart dog, and I think if he had the right trainer, he'd shine.
Sorry for my long post, but thanks for your indulgence.
PS. I "correct" his misdemeanor by putting him on a 26ft flexi and doing a series of fronts. Praising him like crazy when he sat in front of me.