it finally got better

this entire year felt like a blur. until about 2-3 months ago, we were severely sleep deprived and exhausted by our puppy every day. she turned 1 y/o a few days ago (coincidentally coinciding w her first heat cycle), and has very suddenly (within the past couple of weeks) regained so much of the training that had regressed. for months, she did not listen— almost at all, every walk was super stressful and took forever (repetitive leash and reactivity training that seemed like it was doing nothing), she had boundless demon energy and an inability to settle, she was still having accidents inside, and constantly trying to chew things she shouldn’t. i honestly questioned if i was doing things wrong and failing her somehow.

suddenly, like a switch was flipped — she’s a sweet angel who listens to commands and comes when she’s called, puts down the object the first time i say to (but mostly is leaving things she shouldn’t alone), she’s so much more affectionate, our walks are much more relaxing (still working on the leash reactivity—but improving!), she’s communicating her wants and needs more calmly/clearly, and she’s settling on her own and napping regularly. she still has plenty of energy of course, but it’s actually manageable. she’s really pleasant to be around. i honestly assumed she would be a crackhead for another 6 months or more (boxer).

it finally got better!