top of page

12 Months of Pixel

Writer: Shannon EdneyShannon Edney

🎉 12 Months of Pixel! 🐾

I’m celebrating a whole YEAR of love, adventure, and endless puppy antics with my girl, Pixel! 💕 Below I will share a special photo and memory from each month of her life, leading up to her 1st birthday celebration! 🎂🎈


 
Pixel as a newborn puppy. 💖 Photo credit: Patti Cusker, Pixel’s breeder
Pixel as a newborn puppy. 💖 Photo credit: Patti Cusker, Pixel’s breeder

The Beginning (Month 1)

Welcome to the world, Pixel! 🐾


This tiny bundle of fluff stole my heart the instant I saw her. It’s hard to believe how small she was—just starting her journey, full of potential, and ready to take on the world. From the first moment I saw her I knew she was special, but even more so she immediately took ownership of my heart and my thoughts, I couldn’t stop thinking about her (even though we were preparing for an out-of-state move and adding a puppy to our family was not something we were even considering – plus the litter was all spoken for).


 
Pixel at 6 weeks of age.
Pixel at 6 weeks of age.

The Decision (Month 2)

Sometimes, the best things in life happen when you least expect them. 💕


At 6 weeks old, I photographed Pixel’s litter—and I kid you not, Pixel PICKED me! I was lying on the ground snapping photos of all the adorable pups when she kept running straight to me, flopping onto her back for belly rubs like we’d known each other forever. When it was her turn to be photographed, she wouldn’t take her eyes off me and kept darting right into my arms. 💖


My heartstrings were officially pulled!


Adding a puppy to our family definitely wasn’t in the plans… but Pixel had other ideas. 😍 I couldn’t stop thinking about her—those bright eyes, that sweet little face, her snuggling in close for loves. And then fate stepped in (as it often does with the dogs who are meant to find us).


While en route from Montana to Idaho, Patti Cusker, Pixel’s breeder, called to tell me that a spot had opened up in the litter. That was all it took. Pixel was coming home. 🐾✨


 
Pixel the day she arrived at our home.
Pixel the day she arrived at our home.

Month 3

Bringing Pixel Home! 🐾💖


Looking back on Pixel’s third month, I still remember the pure joy of bringing her home! She was just as sweet as ever—maybe even more adorable than when I first met her. From day one, she settled in beautifully, full of confidence and curiosity, thanks to the incredible foundation her breeder, Patti Cusker, gave her.


She took to her new life with ease, quickly mastering potty training and showering us with endless love.


Her favorite toys? ⚽️🧸

• Her soccer ball (a future all-star in the making!)

• A Himalayan chew (because tasty things are the best things)

• The stuffed bunny her breeder sent with her (her first snuggle buddy 💕)


From the very beginning, she was an amazing addition to our family, and looking back, I can’t imagine life without her! 🥹🐶✨


 
Pixel at 4 months.
Pixel at 4 months.

Month 4 🐾

Those legs are growing faster than her coordination! 🤣


At 4 months old, Pixel really started to sprout up—all legs, fluff, and non-stop puppy zoomies! 🚀 She perfected the art of puppy parkour, bouncing off furniture and keeping us entertained with her playful antics.


This was also the month her ears finally decided what they wanted to do—and I think they made the perfect choice! But the best part? Those bright, expressive eyes—still filled with wonder, curiosity, and just the right amount of mischief. ✨


Growing up has never looked cuter. 💕


 
Pixel at 5 months.
Pixel at 5 months.

Month 5 🐾✨

Master of the Head Tilt! 🐶


It didn’t take long for Pixel to become an expert at turning up the puppy charm to irresistible levels. 😍 She is a master of melting hearts with her expressive eyes, playful antics, and yes… the occasional perfectly timed head tilt for extra effect.


Whether bounding after the ball, flashing that irresistible puppy grin, or snuggling up for extra love, she knows exactly how to wrap everyone around her paw. 💕


Pixel, you are the queen of cuteness, and you know it!


 
Pixel at 6 months.
Pixel at 6 months.

Month 6

Puppy Class Prodigy! 🎓🐾


Halfway to one! 🎉 At six months old, Pixel was already proving she was one smart cookie 🍪. She absolutely aced puppy class, soaking up every lesson like a little sponge! From perfecting her recall to nailing new tricks, she made training look easy (and made sure everyone knew just how clever she was).


And of course, she worked those puppy eyes to her advantage—because who can resist a pup that’s both adorable and brilliant? 😍


 
Pixel at 7 months.
Pixel at 7 months.

Month 7

Growing up so fast! 💕


At 7 months, Pixel’s fluff started to fill out, but she was still my goofy little pup at heart. This was also the start of her “teenage phase”—a little sassier, a lot more curious, and always keeping me on my toes. 😂


She absolutely loves going on long walks and exploring new areas with her bestie Penny. When it comes to new doggy friends, she prefers the chill ones (like Penny, of course!). At home, she adores snuggling with her brothers Togo and Rugby, and when she plays, she goes all in—until she completely zonks out. 💕


Every day with Pixel is a gift. Watching her grow, learn, and develop her own little quirks has been one of the greatest joys of my life. I love this girl beyond words, and I can’t imagine life without her. ❤️


 
Pixel at 8 months.
Pixel at 8 months.

Month 8 

🌍 Adventure Buddy for Life 🌍


By month 8, Pixel had fully embraced her role as my adventure buddy. Whether out on our daily walks, exploring new places, or just hanging out, she was (and still is!) always by my side—tail wagging and heart full of love. 💕


She’s curious, full of energy, and always ready for whatever the day brings. And seriously, how adorable does she look in her winter scarf?!?!!! 😍 This girl has my whole heart, and I love her more than words can say. 💗


 
Pixel at 9 months.
Pixel at 9 months.

Month 9

🎄 Pixel’s First Christmas 🎄


Month 9 was full of magic because it was Pixel’s very first Christmas! ✨ She was completely mesmerized by the twinkling lights, the crinkly wrapping paper, and—of course—the excitement of new toys! 🎁


She quickly learned that gift bags were full of fun surprises, and let’s just say… she may or may not have tried to help unwrap everyone’s presents. 😂 But the best part? Snuggling up with her and soaking in all the love this season brings.


This girl is the greatest gift, and I love her with all my heart. 💛


 
Pixel at 10 months.
Pixel at 10 months.

Month 10

My Shining Star


At 10 months old, Pixel has truly become the perfect little model—she just knows how to work the camera! 📸 From her soulful eyes to her expressive little head tilts, she makes every shot pure magic. But beyond her beauty, she is such a bright light in my life. 💛

She’s still the master of cuteness (obviously!) and puts her own flair on everything she does—especially playing fetch. Why just catch the ball when you can leap dramatically into the air first?! 😆


Mornings still start with puppy zoomies (a tradition I fully support), and if there’s snow on the ground? Ohhh, forget it—she’s in pure bliss! ❄️🐾


This girl fills my heart every single day. 💕


 
Pixel at 11 months.
Pixel at 11 months.

Month 11

Almost there! 🎂


At 11 months, Pixel is still every bit the playful, spirited pup I adore. ❤️ Her heart is as full of curiosity and joy as ever, and she’s always up for an adventure—or a belly rub!


One of my most treasured moments from this month? A magical day on the frozen lake, where she looked absolutely breathtaking against the winter backdrop. ❄️✨ These portraits will forever remind me of how special this time with her is.


Can’t wait for more epic adventures, more snuggles, and of course, more incredible portraits of my beloved Pixel. 💕


 

🎉🎂 MARCH 1st: Happy 1st Birthday, Pixel! 🎉🎂

And just like that… my baby is ONE! 🥳


From the tiniest ball of fluff to my wild, wonderful adventure buddy, Pixel has made every single day brighter. 💖


She had her very own pupday party (because of course she did!), complete with a special treat, a fancy crown, and plenty of love. 🐾✨ I can’t believe how fast this year has flown by—watching her grow, explore, and develop her big personality has been an absolute joy.


Happy 1st Birthday, sweet girl! Here’s to many more years of adventures, snuggles, and unforgettable memories. 💕


 



International award-winning portrait photographer Shannon Edney's photos have been featured on multiple magazine covers with photos published in print and digital advertisements around the world.


Based out of Caldwell, Idaho, Shannon specializes in pet portrait photography showcasing dogs, horses, and their people.


Shannon is known for her ability to catch the perfect expression and capture her subjects in unique lighting, resulting in portraits rich in artistry that will be treasured for years to come - whether it be on a fine art canvas or in a custom artisan album.


Ready to celebrate your pet?

Comentarios


bottom of page