When I brought an Australian Cattle Dog puppy home, life as I knew it shifted — dramatically. My expectations, while open-ended, largely consisted of a.) losing control of my own schedule b.) increasing my activity and caloric burn and c.) diminished sleep quality due to interruption. Today, Cleopatra is 16 weeks old.

Mornings? No longer a slow, sleepy routine. They now start with a burst of energy: a puppy eager to leap into the day. My pre-puppy schedule of sipping coffee and leisurely planning the day has been replaced with brisk walks, potty training, and chasing tiny paws that are always exploring.

Midday errands have become a juggling act. Between my school labs, I’ve had to carve out chunks of time to cater to my pup’s endless curiosity. Mental stimulation games, play sessions, and basic training are now my “breaks.” It’s a rhythm I hadn’t anticipated, but I’m finding joy in the structure it brings—watching those sharp little ears perk up with every new command learned feels incredibly rewarding.

Evenings have become a blend of cuddles and chaos. Long strolls have replaced scrolling through TV shows, as the puppy’s energy seems boundless. But that’s also when I see the bond we’re forming—a trust and love growing with every wagging tail and quiet nuzzle.

Bringing home an Australian Cattle Dog hasn’t just reshaped my schedule; it’s reshaped my perspective. Yes, the day is busier, messier, and much louder, but it’s also richer. The little changes add up, teaching me patience, responsibility, and how to truly be present. Life with a puppy isn’t seamless, but oh, it’s wonderfully fulfilling.

Let’s not forget that while we’re getting our daily routine worked out on paper spring is here! It won’t be long before we’re tasked with squeezing the new routine into a travel trailer for our first round of adventures and boondocking!