This is so much harder than I thought.

This video is very honest. Yes, I could tell you it’s been a breeze, all rainbows and butterflies, and only show the really good parts. But I chose not to do that, because I like to think you’d prefer me to be honest about the ups and downs. Unfortunately not everyone in the comments seems to understand that. That’s fine - maybe you’ve never had a dog or maybe you prefer to only see perfection on social media. You can keep your judgment to yourselves 🙏 And if you have felt some of what I’m feeling - I see you! I feel you! And from what I hear, it does get better ☺️ So much love even in the tough times!! ❤️

You’re doing amazing! When I found Camper and brought him into the Prius I cried at least once a week at least for the first 6 months! It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, taking him in, training him, teaching him he’s not alone in the wild anymore, and truthfully he is still a challenge but I can tell you this… he was 100% worth the blood (literally hahah from squirrel chasing off cliffs & big falls hahah), sweat and tears! The challenging moments become some of the happiest moments. You have a best friend and a pal for life. I like to think of this a lot too, we are the only human they will know, we are their entire world, and how lucky are we to receive that unconditional love! CAN’T WAIT TO MEET VILK AND YOU! XOXOOX

I perceived Eva as a very strong, empowered, confident and courageous woman and for that I admire her so much. But what I admire most is she’s also not afraid of showing her vulnerability. That’s honest, real, and she’s also human. Carry on Eva as you’re such an inspiration. Will be here with your journey. Cheers!

Hi, Eva. I would suggest you get a ramp or ladder for him to get in and out of Odyssey, he will be doing it at least 6 times a day, probably a lot more, it could damage his joints. It is quite normal to feel overwhelmed, but to me it looks like you're doing fine so far :) I would like to offer another advice, especially for having Vilk off leash, if no one else already suggested it: find a secure, fenced in spot (it can even be a house), stop near a tree or some big object, ignore him so he gets bored and starts to investigate around and, when he's not looking at you, hide behind the tree. His eye sight is poor, so you don't have to be invisible. When he'll realize he lost you, he will panic a bit and start to search for you. Preferably wait for him to find you and, when he does, make a big deal out of it: treats, toys, ball, etc.; if he can't find you and you see him take off in some direction, call him back, before he gets too far, so he doesn't get lost or something (this is why it is important to be in a secure area, where he can't actually get lost), and then try again. Do this a lot, in as many places as you can. This will teach him that, if he's too focused on other things, he will lose you, so he will begin to keep a close eye on you, you should find it more and more difficult to actually get away from him, which in turn will mean that he will not get lost or something on a hike, HE will the one keeping track of you, and making sure you don't "escape". Hope this helps ! Good luck with the little one :)

I cried every day for about 3 weeks when I got my puppy. I called the shelter twice to bring her back. I truly thought I'd made a HUGE mistake!!!! But here we are, 8 years later, and she is the absolute love of my life. It took time to figure out how to navigate our lives together but once we did, it was pure magic. You'll get there!!!!!!

When the puppy matures and starts staring deeply into your eyes, the journey is complete.

As a person that has owned several dogs, let me just say this. Vilk seems like a good puppy. Soon you will be able to take him on your runs. I encourage you to get him started ASAP. As much as you travel, it can only benefit you to have him with you at all (most) times. As he matures, he will become your best friend and guardian. Loyalty is what you will eventually end up with, with Vilk. And on a positive note, the runs will make him want to crash afterwards giving you a new time slot to edit your post's 🙂

I don’t know what its like having a puppy but it sounds exactly like having a newborn. When you were overwhelmed and teary, it was exactly how i felt once i had my newborn at home. That feeling of loving him so much yet wanting to escape for a few hours, that’s exactly how i felt with my baby. You brought back memories! I would say its the lowest i have ever felt with him.

Vilk is probably thinking, "She's so much more work than I was expecting!" 😁 Don't beat yourself up so much; you're doing fine.

I am 73 and had dogs all my life, best advice I have always followed is. Ignore bad behaviour but generously reward good behaviour with love and treats especially when puppies. Never "punish" a dog with physical abuse, or isolation, as it will only manifest as aggression or nervousness, just be firm but fair with your voice if he steps out of line, and reward him immediately when he does the right thing. That way he will respect you as his pack leader and WANT to do the right things and follow you to the end of the earth. Socialising with other dogs while a puppy is also very important, so they learn the boundaries of play and manners to older dogs etc.....the majority of dogs are very good and very quick to work out the boundaries...if they are allowed to. My current15 year old Lakeland/Irish Terrier cross (Frodo) is the best companion I have ever had, so well behaved that sometimes it is almost embarrassing, and gives unconditional love back six fold.....even does therapy rounds at the local old peoples Care Home Looks like you have already formed a close bond, and as fellow travellers he will love it you will soon be inseparable.

This is just the training phase; you got this!!! When he's older and well trained you'll get the reward of a lifetime. Hang in there!!! P.S. You're doing a great job!

When I got my puppy (also a working line GSD), I cried a lot the first 6 months. Now that he’s 6 1/2 years old, it’s so much easier, but I also feel sad to see him aging. The time has passed so quickly. Try to appreciate the moments even as hard as they are because it goes so quickly.

I'm 62 and all I've ever had are German shepherds, many types like eastern, western Czech etc. It does get better Eva and your time and love will pay off. Through him, you will automatically become more aware of your surroundings ( where he looks, you'll look) and when he gets bigger, just the look on his face may deter any bad people from bothering you. My wife and I are so happy you found him. We always worry about you.

A well trained dog represents 1000's of hours of training from day one, everyday.

As a seasoned GSD parents, we laughed when you went to porta-potty and asked “where will this lead?”. Eva, you now have a GSD…..you will never be in the bathroom alone again!

I have myself 4 dogs and 2 cats, all rescued from various places. The amount of love I get from them is something I can't put into words. Indeed, I have to wake up very early, give everyone their fair amount of attention and I basically built my life around them and their needs. It's not an easy journey but the rewards you have from them is incredible. Much love Eva from Cora, Nero, Bebe, Oreo, 3-legged-dog and Lady.

Almost 12 years ago I was where you are with your puppy. Today, like everyday for all these years he paid me back for any stress or difficulty he ever caused. It’s like you’re putting energy in a love account that pays you back with interest!

Imagine yourself watching this footage in like 5 years when a mature Vilk and you have already lived a huge amount of experiences together. What a great adventure companion you just got!

My dogs are alot older now and when I look at their puppy photos I realize that I have a smile on my face. 14 years now and I wouldn't trade a single minute for anything. Please don't worry, you'll be a great dog mom

Welcome to parenthood! The joys outweigh the challenges! You’re doing great! 💖~Cara