THE DOGFATHER
●● DOG trainer Vic Barlow, aka The Dogfather, runs training sessions for pets and their owners.
This week he shares his love of dogs...
A massive thanks to all those dogs who trusted me to deal with their problems at our Wilmslow Behaviour Clinic.
With the help of my hard-working team I managed to see 17 dogs in six hours.
It was a record for the animal charity we support and a great opportunity to meet so many dog owners.
Some of the dogs had severe aggression problems while others suffered only from minor issues.
Knowing the source of the REAL problem is the first step in rehabilitation.
Dogs that are often regarded as playful are frequently dominant.
Dogs considered to be aggressive may simply be frightened.
Unlike working dogs, pet dogs rarely get quiet periods in the company of people.
Some of the dogs I met at the clinic had never experienced the joy of walking in relaxed silence.
It’s very therapeutic for all dogs. What many owners regard as play is often stress.
A dog running along a fence barking obsessively at passers by is not having fun. He’s stressed. A quick wuff to let his owner know someone is approaching is fine but continuous barking is not.
It isn’t healthy for a dog (or a person) to be constantly on high-alert.
Small dogs suffer from all kinds of behaviour issues generated from never being treated as a dog.
Nervous, aggressive, dominant behaviour can disappear very quickly once these dogs have rules, boundaries and limitations together with constructive exercise.
Chihuahua Gilbert won our Dog of the Year trophy in 2014, shedding all his nervous inhibitions to become a Kennel Club gold award winner. I love these dogs. These are the guys who put me on the map.
So a huge thanks to Big Zak who taught me never to judge a dog by the suit he wears, little Gilbert who came out of his self-imposed prison to shine like a true star and Topaz who never lost faith.
Together we made a difference.
For more training tips go to www.vicbarlow.com or text Vic on 07590 560 012.