Monty the Cockapoo

I reached out to Sally because my cockapoo has over the year become more aggressive, territorial at home and unpredictable with dogs. It got to the point that my energy on walks was spent avoiding which took away the enjoyment and often became stressful.

As we are going through unusual circumstances during COVID-19 I had our consultation over FaceTime. What has been so interesting is how much my dog and I have benefited from this.

Sally broke everything down and simplified a dogs natural behaviour. It became clear that my dog didn’t feel safe with me on walks and that my so called love at home meant he was actually in control. I needed to become the pack leader and provide security for my dog.

Within 30 minutes of talking via FaceTime I had a sense of relief and my body language shifted from feeling lost and worried to calm and positive. I have previously been given conflicting advice from the vets (this is not to say I think they were wrong, however vets are not behaviour specialists. Vets have their own skill and knowledge and my dog and I needed someone who specialised in dog behaviour with experience. Most importantly, someone I trust).

I am under no illusion that everything has suddenly become perfect. However the change in myself and how positive I feel, my dog has dramatically changed within that afternoon. Boundaries have been set and I am taking charge as the pack leader. I am so grateful for Sallys approach. To the point and firm, but very understanding as we all have a common goal. That we provide a safe environment for our dogs, that our dogs exhibit safe behaviour which ultimately leads to a happy life for owner and dog.

I highly recommend Sally as an expert and a professional you can trust. Even over FaceTime has made a tremendous difference. I cannot wait for Sally to visit and meet my dog to take training to the next level. I believe this to be paramount for my dogs rehabilitation.

Alys

UPDATE: Rehabilitation, Owner and Dog-Day 3

Today has been reinforcing the new boundaries, practicing lead training, appropriate praise and of course the dreaded feeding. My dog thinks he is king of the jungle.

Last night Sally talked me through live via FaceTime how to approach this next hurdle. I was ready to take charge, be calm and most importantly follow the crucial steps and have patience.

Very slowly my dog was learning that their were consequences to his growling. He didn’t get his food. Even when we took a break this was all part of the training, where my dog could take a moment and realise who is the pack leader.

In turn my dog came and sat next to me quietly. Didn’t run away as was not scared, however was understanding the rules. I placed the bowl on the floor and gestured to my dog he was allowed to eat and told him he was a good boy. No growling, success! And my dog enjoyed his supper.

This evening I took the challenge all by myself. It started off well, then we came to a standstill. I followed the steps and was prepared to take as long as it needed. We made a few more break throughs and I decided that my dog was allowed to finish his supper. What a good boy, clever boy.

I thought the hardest part of this journey was not giving my dog the affection I was used to. Especially when he came to me with his doe eyes and waggly tail. On the contrary, the reward of my dogs changing behaviour has given me joy and I feel such sense of achievement. The best amount of love my dog can given me, is his trust.

Alys