05/08/2025
I truly don’t know where to begin. I never thought I’d make it here. It was never a question of him, it was always a question of me. My ability. My courage. My worth.
Happy came to me at my absolute rock bottom. I was terrified bringing him home; he was tiny, so sweet it hurt, and he challenged me in ways I’d never known. But he pulled me out. Out of my head, out of my shell, out of the darkest part of my life. He taught me patience, presence, and joy. Through this little dog, I learned how to laugh again.
Showing felt like an impossible dream — something I admired from a distance but never believed I had the confidence to face. At our first show, I was so anxious and laser-focused on getting it right, it took the judge four tries to acknowledge us (and even then, bless my friends for calling me by name..or we might still be in that ring 😅).
I’ve never had confidence. But Happy, my Papi, has enough for both of us. He shines where I cower.
This road hasn’t always been easy. We’ve faced setbacks, disappointments and days where it felt like we weren’t getting anywhere. We’ve had to learn how to lose gracefully, to walk away from the ring with our heads held high and to remember that our worth doesn’t lie in ribbons. Those moments taught us humility, resilience and the quiet strength it takes to keep showing up.
Following proudly in the pawprints of his mother and sister, Happy has earned his Neuter Champion title in under a year.
True to breed standard, he continues to impress, achieving this title not only against quality competition in the breed, but also gaining numerous higher group and show awards. He has proven himself a force to be reckoned with in the ring and earned many gratefully received compliments from breeders and judges alike.
He’s not just a show dog. He’s the best little farm dog and the most joyful, active companion anyone could ask for. And I have no doubt he’ll be a spitfire in the sport rings to come. He was made for it.
Because at the end of the day, it was never really about the title. it was about us. Me and him. Our story. Our bond. That’s what matters most.
