Modela is the smartest dog I have ever known, showcasing the kind of canine intelligence that never ceases to amaze us. According to Google, when looking at how many words dogs can learn, “the average dog can learn and understand around 80 to 165 words and commands, while exceptionally smart or well-trained dogs can learn over 1,000 words.” Modela is well above average—and entirely self-trained. We take no credit for her exceptional listening skills, her uncanny understanding of what’s about to happen, or her instinct for when to hide and when to take control. She is the ultimate, instinctive pack dog, displaying classic dog-pack mentality every single day.

As a proven hunter, she has fiercely protected us from chickens, grouse, the mighty iguana, poinsettias, garbage cans, golf carts, the occasional can of paint and shortbread. She is our guard dog, the protector of the family, and a total daredevil. Small in stature, she is enormous in heart and her love of being together.

Separation Anxiety or True Dog Loyalty?

In fact, leaving Modela behind is like flipping the switch on the Tasmanian Devil. Even eight years later, this poor girl sleeps with one eye open starting three days before we go anywhere—even if she has been told numerous times that she is coming with us. This fierce dedication highlights the deep signs of dog loyalty ingrained in her DNA. She sees the suitcases, watches us prepare to pack up, and knows we are closing down for a week, a month, or sometimes longer.

To Modela, the journey and the destination are not important; it’s all about keeping her family close.

A World Traveller with a Million-Dollar Smile

Having travelled through nine countries, 25 states, and five provinces, Modela has turned our lives into a series of incredible dog travel adventures. She can effortlessly navigate you through the trails, up the mountains, into the towns, and straight through the hotel lobbies of every single one of those places. If you are used to travelling with dogs, you know how special that bond is. Known to many over the years as a bit of a “hotel queen,” she absolutely loves to make a grand entrance.

“Hi, I’m Modela! I’m available to play all day!”

She is the friendly greeter to all who cross her path, with a forever-smile to welcome you and a wagging tail to guide you. She was once coined as having “the most beautiful eyelashes” by an eight-year-old boy in Whistler. Across the globe, she is complimented for her infectious smile, her joy, and her wagging “propeller” tail.

“How old is your puppy?” “Awww, cute puppy! Can I pet your puppy?” People always ask. She’s been seven years old, eight years old, and now, she is almost nine. She is a dog determined to live like a puppy. 

Born to Lead

Modela can walk a trail she has never stepped foot on before, and she is instantly the leader of the pack. Striding about 20 feet ahead, she sniffs out dangers, wild animals, and the path of the dogs before her, showcasing natural leader of the pack traits. Always keeping a keen eye on her pack, she looks back from time to time to make sure we are all still together, with Miller trailing not far behind.

For Modela, there is no second position—only first. Even when a fascinating scent takes her off pace, she gears down, her back legs outpacing the front to aggressively take back what is rightfully hers: the front of the line. Just ask the long-legged red setter still finishing the race. 

Over the years and through all our travels, we still try to determine which spot has been her absolute favorite. Was it her swimming hole in Whistler, where she ran across beach dunes and plunged into frigid waters trying to catch a duck? Was it Scotland, following the deer-trodden trails around the swan pond? Or perhaps the cranberry farms of Muskoka?

It’s hard to tell for certain. Each place was a new adventure, bringing fresh sounds and smells that quickly became her home away from home. No matter where the trail leads next or what new scents await, one thing remains absolutely certain: as long as her pack is together, Modela is already exactly where she belongs.

Join Us on Our Journey Around the World @twotravellingdogs