While I may joke about being Elsie's bitch, the truth is, I find joy in giving her the freedom to simply be a dog, unburdened by the need for me to assert dominance. Unless there is a risk of danger, Elsie is free to be herself.
She has mostly impeccable manners, but when the occasional slip happens, I gently enforce boundaries with a firm "NO! Nooooooo. Look at me! That's nooo." Then comes the theatrics—one minute of the silent treatment with my back mostly turned. That part is the hardest! Then it's over, and we move on with our day. But after we've walked about 15 steps, I stop her and whisper my affection.
Elsie is a remarkable Lab/Australian Shepherd mix with an incredible knack for communicating. Sometimes, she delicately takes my hand with her mouth, leading me to the spot outside where I've set up the big blanket, to her toys, or to the refrigerator. As a fellow food enthusiast, I can relate to the temptation. And as Elsie's bitch, I just can't tell the girl no after she's so clearly asked for more.
One of my favorite recent moments was when my friend Connie was over. Elsie, in her endearing manner, gently seized her hand, leaving Connie momentarily taken aback. Serving as Elsie's interpreter, I translated: Elsie led Connie to our familiar outdoor blanket spot. Connie, puzzled, stood with her legs nearly hip-distance apart and her arms awkwardly dangling after Elsie left her there to nestle a short distance away in her cool, shallow hole. From across the yard, Connie called out uncertainly, "What do I do now? Am I supposed to stay here?"
While I was used to Elsie's behavior, Connie was not, but her willingness to listen and engage with this other creature brought me immense joy. I responded, "No, she wants us to lay over there. I'll bring the blanket.” I placed the blanket in the usual spot, which was better than where we were initially. Connie and I giggled at this.
Elsie's charm is extraordinary, and observing her various interactions has, in some ways, influenced my personal growth and assertiveness. But that's a story for another time...