Duffy's Dog Training Center

Earlier this summer, I reached out to @duffysdogtraining in Indiana about helping me find a new pup. They helped train Crank, so they already understood my abilities as a handler, as well as what I was looking for in a dog: a working breed under 50 pounds, under two years old, healthy, good-tempered, high-drive, somewhat protective, kid-tolerant, and a loyal companion. After losing my heeler last year, I knew I didn’t want to leave the next 15-ish years of my life to chance. Rather than picking a puppy from a litter or taking a shot on a dog at a shelter, I wanted to be thoughtful about finding the right fit. A dog is all I’ve got at home, so I figured it was worth getting some professional help with the search. The folks at Duffy’s see A LOT of dogs and have great relationships with local breeders and shelters. They train service animals as well as family dogs, so when an 1yr old, small German Shepherd came into a local shelter as a stray, they reached out. She was microchipped, but her owner never responded. She was a little timid, but the staff saw potential in her. She bonded quickly with them and showed a real eagerness to learn. I said, “I’m in!” She spent about three weeks at Duffy’s settling into a more structured environment and learning basic manners, confidence, and composure before coming home with me. And so far? We’re having a blast. She’s already proving to be a great running buddy, can demolish a food bowl in under 10 seconds, loves to cuddle, and is absolutely obsessed with anything ball-related. I found a few pee puddles during the first couple of days, but even that is getting better every day. I can’t wait to see what adventures we get ourselves into. I’m already planning some backpacking trips for next summer. ❤️❤️ Welcome home, Rumi. 🐾