Cinnamon was a first time dam. At some point, probably when she was exhausted from nursing her 7 pups, she bit 3 of them. One pup had it worst, they said. Knowing my luck I immediately assumed it was the one I had secretly chosen within minutes from them being born. Sure enough, it was. They called her Scarlet because of the scar next to her nose.

When it was time (at 8 weeks and 2 days), I chose her anyway and named her Milan. I have no regrets. It was love at first sight and now, almost 5 years later, I can still say I made the right choice (I know where all but one of my grandpups are and still check up on them from time to time) even if Milan’s not an easy dog.

How a dog turns out is both nature and nurture. She’s not perfect because there is dominance in her blood and, well, she’s a Beagle (Beagle owners would understand), but I made the right choice AND I’ve taught her EVERYTHING I know as a dog trainer and a dedicated momma.

People who know me well know that I don’t spoil my dogs. At all. They don’t get the most expensive dog beds or toys, they aren’t indulged when they whine or beg, they hardly get away with anything – although they don’t stop trying.

Love is not keeping your dog strictly indoor till its shots are complete, despite what the vet says. Love is not being thrilled about your dog jumping all over you as soon as you get home. Love is not buying a Casper dog bed for $125 (although I’ve been tempted to get one!). Love is socializing your dog before it’s too late so it doesn’t grow up fearful or aggressive. Love is waiting for your dog to calm down and rewarding that behavior. Love is buying a $40 bed on Amazon but giving your dog the discipline, mental stimulation, and physical exercise that it needs through training and walks.