Well I've grown up with labs, so imagine the shock when I had to actually exercise the damn thing!!

No, I'm kidding!!

I think you're right. It's all about knowing what makes him tick and what wears him out. I also think it's important to decided what's important what's not really that big a deal. He doesn't have to be the perfect dog and I think I was trying too hard to make him so I ended up taking all the fun out of the little guys life!

Back on track now and he's currently fast asleep by my feet, covered in mud and soaking wet - even though I've been at work all day!