Thanks for the support!

I wish I could describe how differently Max acts now that he's allowed outdoors off leash to run and get all of his energy out.

He acts so much more mature, and he comes much better when he is called. He sticks around the house. He is very concerned with keeping an eye on us. Maybe he's just scared that we'll leave and he'll miss a car ride!

I've noticed that with all the farm dogs in our area, now that I've been paying attention. There is a golden retriever who comes across our hay field to visit us, and once he brought his sister, but otherwise all of the dogs stay right by their houses all of the time, unless they're with their owners. Not a single one of them chases cars. I don't know why - I've definitely seen farm dogs chasing cars in other places.

There are about five farms within two miles of us, if you draw a circle. Every single one of them has outdoor dogs, and their dogs are often old and well-behaved. One lady has five and they all stay by the house (except the golden).

They won't even come out to the road. In fact, if they see a car coming or me walking by, they get even closer to the house - I guess to guard it.

The difference in behavior of farm dogs vs. town dogs is really a sight to see. I think that, if you hadn't seen it before, you'd be quite surprised. It's like the dogs have a job and take it very seriously. I really think they're in their element out there.