Alpha is the leader of the dogs in this area. The other dogs respect him not just because he's a great fighter…
Alpha is the leader of the dogs in this area. The other dogs respect him not just because he's a great fighter, but because he's a righteous and kind dog.
Lost puppies in the neighborhood? Rescue them! Strays too old to walk? Rescue them too!
The first bite of meat he scavenges is always torn off for the oldest dog.
When the wind is strong at night, he lies on the outermost circle, letting the puppies huddle under his belly.
So Alpha is very busy. He has to watch the territory and find food. He is also very tired. Scars are layered upon one another; new wounds are added before the old ones heal.
But whenever he has a spare moment, he still teaches the puppies one by one.
He teaches the timid ones not to tuck their tails between their legs when they meet humans, and the impulsive ones to see who they're facing before they bite.
He teaches them how to share food without fighting, how to take shelter from the rain under the bridge, and how to find the way home in the wind.
Occasionally, he joins in himself.
With a low growl, the pack instantly clears a space. Alpha lowers his body, demonstrating how to pounce, dodge, and protect the throat.
The puppies learn and swarm over him, barking and tumbling into a big, noisy heap.
Thinking back on it, these are always Alpha's happiest moments.