Plus, if you just need a break, put her in the crate and do what you gotta do. Seriously, it’s wonderful…and eventually Tilly won’t need her crate anymore. Cute name, BTW. Put an old shirt that smells like you in there, a fave toy, and make it cuddly. It’s her space. Eventually she may not need it (our dogs don’t). When we transitioned Maddy to a dog bed, we took out her knitted puppy blanket (yes, I made it for her) and put it in her bed. Of course, she chose to use Cassie’s bed…and now they both sleep in my bed, under my bed, under my roomie’s bed…but whatever.

Remember, she’s cute and adorable, but she also needs leadership. You’re the Alpha Dog and you tell her what’s up. If she’s naughty, grab her little snout, squeeze a bit, and say, “No!” It’s close to what Mama dogs do to discipline. Also, make her roll on her back. We call it “putting her down.” You are the master, she is not. Tell her what’s up. Honestly, it’ll make her happy because she’s a dog; she understands things from a dog perspective, not a human perspective.

Like C.J. said, the annoying phase does pass…but at the same time, enjoy her sweetness, her crazy puppy rips, and other antics. However, don’t let her think AT ALL she’s the boss.

She’s going to be exhausting, annoying, and you’re going to be ready to kick her to the curb. Don’t. It’s illegal. That and you named her, so technically, she’s yours for keeps. And really, God cares about little Tilly, so pray. And I’ll pray for you, too. I don’t think that God finds any of this silly at all. In fact, I think we were meant to care for animals.