I have always taken Jack on off lead hikes. He is reliable and all of his dog friends are reliable too. I decided to try taking Cinnabun along to see if she could go off lead too.
Jack, Cinnabun and I met up with McKenzie and her dog Baxter in a spot frequently used for off lead hikes. Jack and Baxter ran off, exploring. They both come when called and they both "check in", two important requirements for going off leash. I dropped Cinnabun's leash to see what she would do. She trotted into the sage brush to investigate but had no interest in the group or in coming back when called either then or later on. She is very independent, so I was not surprised, but this meant I would be keeping a close eye on her. I could drop her leash and let her wander, but she would not be going off leash. I kept her with me most of the way but towards the end dropped the leash again and let her follow Baxter. She still didn't come when called or when we walked on ahead, but she was more interested in Jack and Baxter and their explorations. She loved the exercise, the new smells and the new surroundings.
She may not be able to go off leash like the other dogs right now, but she was a tired and happy dog by the end of the hike. With more experience she may become more attentive but for now it is enough that she is having new experiences and enjoying herself.
