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Question
I have an absolutely delightful Golden Retriever three years old.  There are times when we are out for a walk off leash and she'll get ahead of me and then when I call her she'll look at me and take off.  I use the command come, say it with authority but she when she thinks she can make a bee line she does. I get really upset, then remember timing is everything so I don't know how to handle these moments of disobedience.

Answer
How well and how consistently have you actually taught a recall? What's in it for her that's better than running and exploring? Until I had a solid recall (which starts with the dog whip-lashing towards me when they hear their name, and also involves rewards) that dog wouldn't have the chance to rehearse taking off when she's called. She'd be on a long line, and I'd be doing lots of work on it. If she's learned that ignoring the recall word is okay, you may do better to change the word and start over. Don't call her unless you are in a position where you have control of the situation, or would bet a $50 bill that she is going to come, and never call her to you for something she considers unpleasant. And under no circumstances, be angry with her if she does run away but then comes back. If you do, she's going to think the anger has to do with her coming to you. Sandy Case BFA, MEd CPDT www.positivelycanine.com