The Dogfather: The power of positive thinking

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Flash, an English bull Terrier, is a formidable character. Owner Gemma told me he was aggressive to other dogs, which wasn't a huge surprise. She had tried to educate him to ignore other dogs but, said, he simply could not resist. After my consultation with Gemma I took Flash out to hear his story.

Flash knew perfectly well what his owner wanted and demonstrated it by ignoring every dog we walked by. He just had no faith in her leadership. For me Flash was an angel who showed both me and my dogs the utmost respect. For Gemma he was an ill-mannered renegade.

I explained to his distraught owner that pack animals only ever take orders from above. They do not obey underlings. They may occasionally acquiesce if it suits them but not when it conflicts with their own interest.

After the first flush of embarrassment Gemma understood where she had gone wrong. Flash was a gladiator who respected strength and abhorred weakness. By allowing him on the furniture and into her bedroom she had empowered Flash who saw her as a follower.

Gemma became determined to show who was boss. "No dog is going to put me down," she said as we walked back to her house. I left her with a list of instructions and the clear understanding that her ATTITUDE was the most important tool she had. Threats were unnecessary, Flash would know whether she was resolute or not.

A month later I was stunned when Gemma turned up at class with Flash trotting obediently alongside. He ignored every dog and his manners were impeccable.

It wasn't Flash who'd been transformed (he already knew what was required) it was Gemma.

For those owners who cannot commit to weekly classes I have a two-day Master Class on the weekend June 6/7 where you will learn how to be your dog's natural Leader.

You can find full details are available on my website

Tags:
The Dogfather, Vic Barlow
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