I got a dog!

A week before Thanksgiving, I adopted a rescue dog named Xena. She is 1 year 8 months old.  She is a Shepherd something mix. 

The first week or so was awesome. She was well behaved, had excellent leash manners and was a complete love bug.

Then one day, she changed.  She started to get a bit exuberant, not stopping her play when told, trying to nip me and my man randomly, barking at me, growling a bit...just acting...odd.

Days went on and I tried to keep her entertained so she wouldn't act out.  She is incredibly smart and catches on to learning new things quickly.  We'd go for many walks, take the steps down (16 flights) instead of the elevator, play fetch, etc.  Then we'd settle on the couch, just chilling out, and relaxing.  She would tire of relaxing and want to play.  So we'd play. 

I started to allow her to lay on the bed.  Her naps took place there..and sometimes I would nap with her.

While on walks, I would let her walk ahead of me. 

She had affection all the time.  I was on her schedule..she wasn't on mine. 

I believe she thought I was a push over..and she was right. 

I almost wanted to permanently give her back.  I was not up for a dog with behavior issues.  The foster mom asked me if I could use a break to reassess.  She offered to take Xena for the week.  At first, I didn't think this would help. Then I thought..damnit, I've wanted a dog for three years now... yes, take the break..reassess.

I'm so glad I did.  Xena is coming home on Sunday.  I've been without her since Sunday afternoon.  First night I just cried.  Second night...thought maybe I wasn't the best person to adopt this dog....  Then Tuesday came. I woke up and it just hit me.  I allowed this to happen....

This is a wonderful dog.... she isn't the problem.  I AM!  or was...

I let her be the dominate one. The ruler.  The queen.

Oh hell no!  (How freaking cute is she though?!!)

So, it's back to the starting gate.  I needed to take a step away to see what I was doing wrong.  She needs structure.  Just like a child. Rules. Boundaries. Guidelines. 

This is going to be one well trained kick ass dog when I'm finished with her.

I get her back on Sunday around 4:30.  While I was feeling overwhelmed and very unhappy, I now feel energized and ready to be the responsible, smart dog owner I know I can be.  She deserves that. 


I am hoping that blogging about this will help me keep on the right track.  Here's hoping!