We have and it can be fun. First, the introductions. I am Robbie (Leebren Rob Roy) and Hovis (Leebren Cinnamon Fizz) is my real mum, and we, are Cavaliers. Our Cavalier predecessors, Patty (Crystal Caprice) and her sister Jennie (Rosina Sunset), had been doing obedience, since an early age. In their day, they ignored comments like "don't work like Collies, do they?" and we continue to do the same. No, we don't work like Collies and that's because we're not. Despite these remarks, they persisted with this pastime, entering all types of shows, as well as inter-club matches. The best was, and still is, an obedience show just for Toy Group dogs.

Patty first went to this show in 1986, run by South Eastern Counties Toy Dog Society. In those days, it was held at the Porchester Hall, Queensway in Central London, a very posh venue with a double staircase leading to the hall, and crystal chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. In these grand surroundings, rather different from a muddy field, she won her first Beginners. There's not that many of us 'Toys' in obedience, but Papillon, Khanness Birthday Boy and Yorkie, Kerry's Mr. Toby, owned by our friend Pat Ross have both won at open show in classes of over 30 and 50, the only 'toys' entered, and left the Collie and G.S.D. handlers gaping, maybe their dogs as well. So, you see, it can be done.

We are actively involved with the South Eastern Counties Obedience Show and travel dowm from Scotland twice a year for this event. I am trying to follow in Patty's footsteps and be 'Mum's' second 'superstar', and I can work well, but if more interesting things catch my eye, I'll just leave the ring for a wee crack with my pals. 'Mum' doesn't get cross though (there's no point and the fun would be gone), but, of course, I wasn't in the team of Toy Group dogs that were chosen by The Kennel Club for The Good Citizen demonstration at Discover Dogs in 1998 and for Crufts in 1999, or the team giving an obedience demonstration at Discover Dogs in 1999. (The wee write-up in Dog World was great) Still, Hovis and I have both passed our Good Citizen Bronze and Silver and will try, in time, for the Gold. Last year, we also passed our Road Safety Awareness Test at Fair City Dog Training Club with our Cavalier friend Jack (Carleny Sunset Surprise) and owner Carol White. Now though, it is the year 2000 and we have just heard that The Kennel Club have invited S.E.C.T.D.S. team to give an obedience demonstration at Crufts and guess what, I am going too this time. As long as I don't show myself up, I can impress Angus (Cavallino Jaeger) the new addition to our family.

So, come on all you Toy Group dogs, how about taking up some obedience and give yourself a new interest in life. If nothing else, it will improve your manners and when your owner's head swells with pride, you may find yourself in an obedience ring. Remember, no matter what level of proficiency you achieve it can only be of benefit. After your first show, as you climb wearily into the car for the homeward journey, you may dream of the main ring at Crufts. There you are in that big ring with not a collie in sight and the audience are clapping wildly. The announcement is made - Crufts Obedience Champion...............

Crystal Caprice and Rosina Sunset came from Lochbuie and Silverset lines.
Patty (Crystal Caprice) died in December 1996, of kidney failure, at the age of 14?years. Jennie (Rosina Sunset) died 5 months later, a month under her 15th birthday, with a suspected tumour on the pancreas. Both dogs were given sleep, with their dignity still intact. Both had lived full and healthy lives, and no one can ask for more. The pleasure they gave cannot be counted, and their loss does not fade. This epitaph to another well-loved dog, equally fits both my girls and, in fact, all dogs.