The Project Dog: Elway’s Story
Hello, and welcome to The Project Dog!
Hi! I'm Patti and I've been a student at Supernova Dogs with several of my dogs through the years. Elway and I have learned manners, some agility, and tricks, and loved all of it!
We can’t wait to hear Elway’s story, take us back to the beginning.
Elway came into my life in the Fall of 2020, a pandemic dog of sorts. 2020 was full of loss. My sweet Percy died in April, my grand dog Cannoli died in August, and my wonderful Daisy Mae was very old and died in November, just two months after Elway joined us. I never want to be without a dog! They're lights in my life and the heartbeats at my feet.
Has your dog’s reactivity impacted your relationships?
The simple answer is yes, having a reactive dog did and does impact my relationships. Family members want to pet Elway. It doesn't seem like too much to ask, especially with him laying companionably with us on the couch, or does it? But this didn't and doesn't always go well, especially early on. He was scared and uncertain of things and would lash out. As he became more sure of himself and his new life, he would approach everyone more. But a keen eye for early signs of stress and lots of patience is and was needed. His ears were badly damaged when he joined us and that was part of what drew me to him. The rescue's post said they could "never ever" be touched. I couldn't accept this and didn't want him to suffer that. And this was an added stressor for him as he slowly healed. Accepting him for who he was and is has not always been easy. Looking back I expected a lot from everyone. I was ready for the challenge and assumed everyone else would just jump on board.
It sounds like you have been a wonderful advocate for Elway and his needs, even when it was difficult to do so. Not everyone understands what it’s like sharing your life with a project dog but sometimes we meet people who do. Have you made connections with other project dog owners while on your journey with Elway?
Elway and I participated in Canine Good Citizen classes (CGC, CGCU, CGCA) at Supernova Dogs. This was an amazing achievement for us, as early on Elway did not want anyone to touch him. He did a lot of barking too...But we worked through it all with such amazing support from our instructors and fellow classmates. We made a great connection with another reactive dog and his owner. At first glance, a border collie would not be the first choice for a friend for Elway: Energetic, vocal, intense, always chasing that ball! But it happened, and Ela & Oliver became our walking, hiking, and pool party besties. From taking classes together we knew the dog's strengths and challenges. Something on wheels? Let's help Oliver. Running enthusiastic kids? Let's help Elway. We know, love, and accept each other's dogs, and that is like gold. Sadly they have moved across the country, but their friendship boosted our confidence and optimism!
Parkour is better with friends! Best friends Elway and Oliver pose for a photo on a swing.
Elway sounds like quite an accomplished guy. What would you say he really excels at?
Elway didn't seem to have had any training at all in his previous lives, not even a Sit. He was fearful of so much, including hand signals and certainly anything or anyone over his head. We showed up at a Supernova Dogs Parkour event soon after his arrival and he was such a good boy. Being outside, having space, and lots of positive reinforcement gave just a glimmer of what was to come. He is athletic and can jump and climb on, over, or through just about anything. He earned the Masters Expert Level Trick Dog certification. That's a lot of tricks! We had SO much fun learning these tricks in class and they are some of my fondest memories. The trust and vulnerability and shared decision making truly fostered a deep connection and bond that I treasure.
Congratulations on your Masters Expert Trick Dog title, what an awesome accomplishment! It sounds like you both enjoy working on new skills and achieving goals together. Do you have any plans for what’s next?
A goal we have is to achieve the Trick Dog Grand Champion title! I don't know if it's possible. I've put it aside for several years. Coordination, nose target, paw target, scent, distance, signals, behavior chain, 5 expert tricks...yes! It's the two mouthing behaviors, especially releasing to my hand that have us stuck. The ribbon is SO BIG for this title and he is so little. Maybe 2026 is our year.
That sounds like an exciting goal to work towards, we are certainly looking forward to seeing what you and Elway accomplish next! Based on your experiences with Elway, is there any advice you would give to someone who is just discovering their dog is reactive?
If I could offer advice for someone who just got a project dog it would be to stop and take a deep breath. Often. Regulate your nervous system. Practice calm movements and nurture a calm environment. Cultivate and practice self compassion. Make observations which are more neutral instead of judgements about yourself and your dog when you can. Take a break from your dog in whatever way is helpful to you. Even taking a walk without him, which can seem counterintuitive. Life with a reactive dog is truly a journey. You are not alone. There are lots of us out there sharing some of the same struggles. Your life is different now and leaning into gratitude and the things you love about your dog helps restore balance.
This is wonderful advice, thank you so much for sharing these insights with us. Before we say goodbye, is there anything else you would like to share with us?
We added another dog to the family a few years ago. He accepted her and I am so grateful for that. She has added a layer of stress and I've seen some regression that we're continuing to address. She's also added play to his life and so much joy to the family. I'm so glad Elway is in my life and in my family. He is loyal and devoted. He wants to go wherever I go. He'll try almost anything I ask of him. He's clearly forgiven me for all my mistakes and I'll love him forever for that.
Elway showing off his “Peekaboo” trick with little sister, Trixie
We have enjoyed working with Patti and all of her talented pups, but we are most proud of Elway. It has been such a pleasure to watch him flourish with her guidance and support. Their journey is far from over and we can’t wait to see what else they accomplish together!