MICHIGAN DOG TRAINER

A client and her husband have three dogs.  Two of the dogs do not get along very well with each other.  In fact, one day, two of them got into an awful fight with each other.  The client described the fight as being literally a "bloodbath".  It was truly a horrific experience for her to witness her two loving family dogs cause each other serious injuries.  The wounds required several stitches at the veterinarian office. Some folks would have put one or both of the dogs down.  However, she and her husband are very committed to their dogs and willing to do what it would take to restore safety and harmony to their home.

I remember our first session as if it was yesterday.  Both dogs were on leashes at opposite ends of their home trying to go around their owners so they could attack each other.  It was truly a scary situation for their owners.  However, using desentization, counter-conditioning, and containment aggression treatment (CAT) along with good safety measures and handling skills; the dogs are now living peacefully with each other in their home.  They will continue to need close supervision.  However, the dogs can now relax with their owners in the living room despite being in close proximity to each other. 

This was possible due to the owners' diligence and  commitment to training.  They restored safety by using prevention, ensuring another bite did not occur; managing their environment so new behaviors could be taught; and teaching their dogs to relax in each other's presence.  So to answer why I enjoy working with aggressive dogs; it is because of the progress I see dogs make with the proper dog training that seeks to reduce the dogs' fears as opposed to simply punishing the dogs which would ultimately increase their fear and apprehension.  Additionally, it is equally satisfying observing the love this couple demonstrates for each other as they learn and work together for the betterment of their dog family.