You know, I really thought I’d have more videos of 10-week-old Spire by now. Training videos, zoomie videos, toy play videos… ALL the videos! But I have fairly few.
In part that’s because the idea of a “training session” hasn’t quite materialized, especially not one that happens in a predictable or record-able space. I’m teaching her to collect a dropped treat and re-orient to me by walking around the kitchen. She’s learning to offer a sit in many contexts, but repetitions of sit in one spot aren’t quite her style (yet). In short, there’s a lot of learning happening, but it doesn’t really fit into the convenient view of a camera.
I’m realizing I’m okay with that. This puppy requests I be extremely present with HER. While it won’t make for as many cute videos, I’m thoroughly enjoying the experience and the challenge.
Because to be honest, I’m engaged in this odyssey to be changed by her at least as much as I am to change her. Yes, I plan to teach her — to mold her towards the vision of the agility dog and companion I believe she can be. I am thinking all the time how best to foster the qualities and skills I want to see.
I am also thinking all the time about who she needs me to be.
She needs my patient and persistent faith. She needs my willingness and ability to meet her where she’s at. She needs me to be creative and thoughtful about bridging the gaps between her ideas and mine.
It’s a deep and fascinating undertaking, holding this vision. Holding this space. In my mind I have this idea of the dog she will be. At my feet I have this real, live, vibrant puppy who impresses me one minute and exasperates me the next. And the steadier I can be for her, the stronger our relationship will become.
There are a multitude of ways I could have brought home an easier puppy, but I chose this one. I asked for one that would change me, and she has arrived.
In case I haven’t explained this well enough thus far, THIS is the heart of agility: the way we elevate each other in pursuit of the sport. The way our interactions make us both better.
