The struggle many suburban dog owners face is the conflict of their dog's compulsive social urges and fearfulness. Sophie, for example, really wants to get close to people she sees on a walk but, afraid of them, must chase them away as she approaches by barking and lunging.
Owners sometimes need help teaching their dogs that people are trustworthy - and the people they meet need instruction on how to behave in a manner the dog will find trustworthy.
Once I showed Sophie I could be trusted, you can see she accepted me as a walking companion, and it only took a few minutes. Next, we help her generalize that trust.
Sophie's been teaching her family all about puppies. Spoiled in the past by their well-behaved dogs adopted as adults, her people needed some guidance on dealing with all the mouthing, chewing, jumping, and general havoc that puppies are all so good at.
Maximus is so busy in the meeting room at Mississauga Animal Services that it's hard to get a pic of him holding still. He's a sweet and playful guy, and we're helping him get past his concerns about people getting too close to his food dish.
In case you know someone who might be his ideal owner, you can show them more about Maximus here:
We got an extension! Schedule your first Best Friends training appointment in the month of June and you'll receive a voucher for $10 off your next in-store purchase at Ren's Pets if you're a Ren's Rewards Member. It's free to join.
Hey, would you like an update on Thane? Well, first of all, his name is now Bentley, and he and his Chow Chow housemate Scrappy are now buddies! They play well, and always hang out close to one another. Bentley's getting better and better at staying calm on walks and is happily welcoming the many visitors who come to his house. Looks like home-hopping is a thing of the past for him!
