As Piper went out come bye Jennifer said to "let her have her sheep" and "see what she does." So I let her finish the outrun with no whistle or shouted command. She came up behind in the proper position for a calm controlled lift. Followed by a clam controlled fetch where Piper was adjusting herself properly to hold the pressure, adjusting her own pace and WALKING.
Nary a word or whistle until the sheep were about 10 yards from my feet and then I flanked Piper to get the sheep around the post the right way and started on the drive. Then it was minimal handling - mostly a little "take time" and very slight flank to hold the pressure resulting in one of Piper's best drive aways ever. Followed by a nice cross drive and Jennifer suggesting we "quit on that one."
Actually Piper's drives were generally better today than usual. This was true all day and not just on the last drive. Maybe she s starting to get this driving thing down. If so YIPPEE !!
Also the silent gather suggested I need to trust her more and let her work - only interposing whistles or spoken commands when needed. She responded well to the minimalist handling on our final run. Again, hopefuly not a one time thing.
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