Ep 9. Pack Leaders in Training

In this episode of Dog Whisperer, titled "Pack Leaders in Training," renowned dog behaviorist Cesar Millan works with three families who are struggling with their furry friends’ disruptive behavior. The families all have one thing in common: they have adopted rescue dogs who have a history of neglect or abuse, making them more difficult to train.

The first family we meet is the Barreras, whose pit bull mix Kali has been aggressive toward other dogs. Cesar explains that Kali’s behavior is a result of her need to protect her pack – in this case, her human family – and that the Barreras need to assert themselves as pack leaders to manage Kali’s behavior. Cesar works with the family to establish rules and boundaries for Kali, showing them how to communicate effectively with their dog through body language and assertive energy.

Next, we meet the Nevilles, who have adopted a German shepherd named Uno who suffers from separation anxiety. Uno’s behavior is so extreme that he has destroyed the door to the family’s laundry room and has escaped the house several times. Cesar helps the Nevilles understand that Uno’s anxiety is a result of feeling disconnected from his pack, and that they need to show him through consistent exercise, discipline, and affection that he is an important member of the family. Cesar also works with Uno to teach him how to be comfortable in a crate, which will provide him with a safe space when he is alone.

The final family we see is the Valdezes, who have adopted a terrier mix named Wally who barks incessantly and has become aggressive toward strangers. Cesar explains that Wally’s behavior is a result of the Valdezes not asserting themselves as pack leaders, allowing Wally to assume that role and become overly protective. Cesar helps the family understand that they need to provide Wally with structure and discipline to manage his behavior and to build their bond as a pack. He also demonstrates techniques for redirecting Wally’s energy when he barks excessively.

Throughout the episode, Cesar emphasizes the importance of building a strong foundation of exercise, discipline, and affection in order to establish oneself as a pack leader. He explains that dogs are pack animals by nature and that they crave a strong leader who can provide structure and security. By tapping into this instinctual behavior, Cesar helps each of the families to establish a healthy and balanced relationship with their dog.

"Pack Leaders in Training" is a heartwarming episode that showcases Cesar’s expertise in working with dogs and his ability to connect with their human companions. Viewers will walk away with a greater understanding of how to build strong relationships with their own furry friends and the importance of establishing themselves as pack leaders.