Lone Star Ridgebacks

The Perfect 10

Week 5

Before we get to the wiggly tails and muddy paws, we want to pause and acknowledge the heartbreak our state has endured. The recent Central Texas floods took lives, upended communities, and reminded us all how fragile and sacred life can be. While we’re incredibly grateful our home and puppies were kept safe, our hearts go out to those still picking up the pieces.

Because of the storms, our plans for 4-week photos were washed away. The rain was relentless — days on end of thunder, wind, and flooded ground. The pups stayed indoors, warm and dry, while we listened closely to the skies and hunkered down together.

Then, at last, the clouds broke.

And when that first beam of sunlight hit the puppy yard, you would’ve thought we unleashed a litter of tiny rocketships. These five-week-old Ridgebacks exploded with joy — running, leaping, tail-chasing, water-slapping joy. Any hope of still portraits flew out the window faster than a squeaky toy in a tug-of-war. So what you’ll see here is real: blurry paws, wet ears, flying fur, and goofy, wide-open smiles.

This week has been filled with milestones:

Water hose madness: Their first introduction to splashing and spraying was an instant hit (and a complete soaking).
Snuffle mat exploration: Tiny noses went to work as we introduced scent play for the first time.
Bubbles everywhere: Our bubble machine might’ve been the best investment of the month — they chased, bit, and pounced like pros.
Noise desensitization victory: July 4th came and went with fireworks all around us, and not a single pup startled. We’ve been gently introducing sound protocols since their ears first opened, and it’s paying off. Even when we fired up the mower, weed eater, and blower during yard cleanup, they didn’t flinch. No barking. No hiding. Just curious head tilts and brave, quiet watching.

And let’s talk growth — these pups are thriving. Every single one is exceeding expectations, including our “smallest,” who now weighs in two pounds over the typical 5-week benchmark for Ridgebacks. Strong, sturdy, and full of fire.

But perhaps most exciting of all is watching their personalities emerge like little fireworks of their own. Some are bold and bossy, some gentle and soulful, and some are pure comedians in fur coats. Each one is becoming their own little character — and we’ll be sharing those stories soon on their individual pages.

Between the feedings, the training, the playtime, and the clean-up, we’re ending each day bone-tired. But even as we collapse into bed, we find ourselves watching the puppy cam, swapping stories, rewatching funny clips, and laughing all over again. Exhausted? Yes. Fulfilled? Absolutely.

This week has been a vivid reminder that even after the storm — maybe especially after the storm — there is joy, hope, and so much love.

Scroll on and meet these sunshine-soaked warriors.