Alma

Alma is quiet, observant, and emotionally my heart and soul. She is bonded deeply to Frida and tends to move through the world cautiously, preferring predictability and calm. Alma is not a playful dog in a conventional sense; instead, she values stability, clear boundaries, and respectful space. Her sensitivity means she often absorbs stress in her environment without outward display, which can make her needs easy to overlook if I am not paying close attention.

The arrival of multiple younger, more insecure Xolos has been especially challenging for Alma. Being smaller and less assertive, she is vulnerable and uncomfortable around the other xolos. Much of my work this year has been focused on ensuring Alma’s safety, both physically and emotionally, while also slowly trying to introduce her to the new members. This has required proactive management, separation when needed, and careful observation of group dynamics.

Alma’s story underscores the importance of consent and choice in multi-dog environments. She thrives when she is not forced to engage and when her boundaries are respected.

Alma is the seed and my first xolo.  From these eight years with her, I have truly learned how much this breed means to be and is the reason that I couldn't leave the others in the situation they were in.