Part way to Mahia live Fortnum and Mason’s family.  This is their basset family you understand a separate but equally special family to our own family unit here at Domestic Executive HQ.

It seemed rude not to call in as we were passing so once again we ventured into the world where bassets dominate by sheer numbers.  There were 10 bassets at home the day we called in plus ours.

You can just imagine the noise.  Barking, squeeking, sniffing and jumping up and down.  It was rather too much for Naomi who is not a dog person per say and found the whole experience quite overwhelming.  I think Fortnum and Mason also found it tough all that noise and not sure who to listen to.

To restore order and maintain our training regime the beach was a perfect location for puppy boot camp in Mahia.  I felt it important that my boys knew that for the week Naomi was also a leader so she led the training for the first time.  It was hilarious to watch my boys being schooled on the beach.  Not only was she not taking any monkey business she introduced new levels of discipline that made Fortnum and Mason yearn for me being the leader again.  I did of course capture the whole thing for you to enjoy.

Where do I begin?

OK, let’s just say that Mason was eager, a little too eager to be teachers pet and wanted to make friends.

Now, for a person that is allergic to dogs and after more of a look, don’t’ touch relationship, it’s tough.  The body language is a bit of a giveaway don’t you think?

So we start with some easy stuff.  Follow the leader.

Except the pack caught on quick and the leader needed to run away.

This of course is fun and Fortnum and Mason love to chase!

It didn’t take long for the boys to catch up with their new leader!

It was time to call this dog training class to order.  Or at least try to!

I’m not convinced that Naomi has their complete attention.

That’s more like it.  Speak with authority!

Crikey, says Fortnum, all she had to do was ask us to sit.

We lie down too when asked nicely!

What do you reckon?  I don’t think she’s done this training lark before.  Let’s just lie.  Safer I think.

Now where’s she going?  I think we’re suposed to stay.  I think.

You lie, I’ll sit, says Mason. That’ll cover off all the bases!

Yes, I think I’ll just sit.

And sit.  Can’t be too sure.

Fortnum, are you still lying?

Sure am.  Let me know when we’ve got to do something else.

What’s happening now?

Looks like she’s chilling out – or maybe she’s trying that telepathic training we saw on the lifestyle channel the other day.

Thank goodness that is over.  Shall we go and sniff?