If you’re quick at math, you probably already figured out something doesn’t add up in those numbers. And you’d be right! I got Elli when she was 3,5 months old, not at 7 weeks as per usual. Born with a name ‘Hearty’ she for sure has a big heart! Elli was taken home at 7 weeks old but was returned to the breeder just two short weeks later due to being too much of a burden. She was taken to a brand-new home a couple of weeks later… and returned yet again. I know. The second return had to do with the owner’s health, so I kinda get that one. I’ve had my share of health issues, so I’m not judging. However, when Elli came home with me, it was her third time at a brand-new place. Her third name. Her third set of rules to live by. I guess third time’s a charm. It’s safe to say it was a bit of adjustment for both of us. And, as with any pup, it sure wasn’t easy. Far from it. Coz the best and easiest ‘training-time’ had already passed I felt I worked a double-shift at every training session. Everything came harder for us. Yes, we grew fond of each other, and not a day went by that Elli didn’t do something so pure and fun that I literally burst out laughing but believe me when I say it was hard. And still is, sometimes. Of course, part of the hardship was caused by my own stupidity – I didn’t know how to set proper boundaries right from the get-go. I learned it later. I struggled a great deal with random biting spurs and was afraid to let Elli play with my friend’s kids, coz what if she plays with teeth, right? I struggled with reactivity toward other dogs – this one we’re slowly getting over now! Whew! That’s truly a big win for us! Walking when leashed up was painfully hard and at the beginning there wasn’t even a term for a loose leash! Today she’s doing awesome, and I truly enjoy our walks to the max! She walks nicely with or without the lead and her recall is getting better by day. With looking at me and improving contact we’ve still got a long way to go, but slowly and steadily I’m sure we’ll get there. Today she’s the friendliest pup there is and has zero aggression whatsoever, even when she herself is under attack. She literally doesn’t even fight back. I’m not sure whether it’s good or bad, but I’m glad there’s no aggression. Okay, so that’s how my journey as a pup owner started, we’re becoming more of a team each day and now I’m able to have a whole different perspective on our journey. Also – thank you for being part of it, this means a world to us! I’ll write a whole other post purely on training, both methods and means, soon. Until then I’ll leave you with a few pup photos to sweeten up the day! :) 

Talk to you soon!
Kadri & Elli