My neighbour, Monika, messaged me to see if I wanted to go for a walk with her Sheltie, Copper who apparently likes playing with other dogs.

I immediately said yes, and that we could walk in my big field.

This is the first time Pepper has met another dog, after travelling up here with her sister so I was very interested to see how she would get on.

Of course, Pepper was over-excited, annoying and silly. Copper stoically bore the irritating behaviour, hoping she would give up or go away, and then snapped at her, putting her on her back most probably in surprise.

Perfect.  It worked like a charm.  Pepper had to learn and she only needed telling once and not by me.  Well done and thank you, Copper.  Sometimes only another animal can do this.

And then we got on with a lovely long walk to the end of my field, which is perfect for dogs to gallop about in.

During the day I mostly take Pepper with me around the croft now, shouting “Croft Dog” when I want her to follow.  We are slowly introducing her, totally supervised, to everyone.

The ducks are faring better too.

I guess the excitement has gone.

Pepper loves the ducks. She looks at them, and then they instantly fart or poo and that is like the best sound ever!  She has stopped chasing them which is good.  I have found a new home for our latest additions too (17 ducks is way too many), keeping Mum and one daughter back to join the rest of our old flock.

So we are making progress. New things every day.