Hi Christine: My dogs( I have 3 ) are my frequent companions when I go birdwatching; in fact, they have come to expect it, and look devastated whenever I pull away without them. Safety can be an issue when you`re a woman birding alone, as I often do. Bunky, my shep/retriever X is friendly after he knows someone, but to an approaching stranger looks plenty serious. As Rick mentioned, the flexi-lines are wonderful inventions. I keep my youngest dog ( collie/smething X) on it, because tho` well behaved he is a devoted deer chaser. He always comes back, but I don`t want him tearing through the forest. Mine also, are all adopted, 2 from the SPCA, the other found at a local Acme. Another plus for having the dogs along, I warmed my hands in their fur today; it was cold at the Hawk Watch! I have also been caught without binos, but most often when working in the back of the yard. A few days ago a Buteo sp. was soaring over, by the time I got to my binos in the house, it was too late. Don`t you hate that! Sorry i can`t ID your mystery birds for you. Enjoy your dog, you`ll have many birdwatching years ahead to enjoy. Leslie Fisher North east, MD