The Dogfather: Barbara and Cassie

This week Barbara (the lady in the above photo) became the first handler to be awarded Lifetime Honorary membership of Team Dogfather.

Barbara, age 86, drives 15 miles to class and turns up a half hour early for every outdoor session to do pre training with her rescue GSD Cassie regardless of weather.

She is an inspiration to us all, never complains but just gets on with it and consequently has one of the best German Shepherds we have had in class.
Every day owners tell me they don't have time to go to a training class or the dog is 'too strong' for them or it's dark when they get home etc. Meanwhile the dog is causing mayhem in the house simply through lack or constructive exercise and training.

Dogs don't care about the weather they have ideal outdoor clothing (unless you live in the Arctic circle). It makes no difference to them what time of day it is and they certainly don't require muscle power to train. But they do need commitment and sound leadership.

If an 86 year-old lady of small stature can rescue an unruly German Shepherd and train it to behave like Cassie it obviously isn't a battle of brute force.

It is however commitment and determination to learn the skills needed to educate and create a calm well-behaved dog. It is not magic... anyone can do it.

I've seen ten-year-old children do it as well as grandmas and grandpas. Dogs don't care who they work with just as long as they consistent and committed.

It's all state of mind with dogs. If they see you as a strong leader they will follow you anywhere and you will have a friend for life.

We start all our new autumn classes next week from puppies to oldies why not join us (and Barbara) and create the dog you dreamed of.

Just go to www.vicbarlow.com or text me direct on 07590-560012