Dogs are very "place" oriented / specific. It sounds as though she may have learned that you do not hold her to the same behavioral standard in the yard as you do elsewhere. Mind you I am not there to observe what the exact dynamics involved might be. For the dogs that I work with, their work is in fact the outlet for their energy and it tests them both physically and mentally (which they find most enjoyable).
As a trainer, I am not one that favors dropping the standard my dogs come to expect to be held to. In fact, I consider obedience to be a way of life for my dogs and it provides them with the structure that dogs do best with.
Sadie has a special ball that she is only allowed to play with as a reward. I'll throw it and she retrieves to hand. Sort of a dual training/play exercise. I've always maintained standards as regards obedience, and it's not really that she isn't being obedient. We have a ton of the little lizards around the house. Every dog we've had seems to be fascinated with chasing them. She's been trained to recognize that "leave it" means you stop what you're doing and move away. Last thing I want is a bird dog chasing squirrels, rabbits, snakes, lizards or any other critter. She will obey the command, but I'm picking up a little hesitation when the training collar isn't on.
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