Ep 8. Twice Bitten

In Cesar 911 season 2 episode 8, titled "Twice Bitten," renowned dog behaviorist Cesar Millan travels to Virginia to help two different dogs with serious aggression issues. The episode highlights the dangers of ignoring or mishandling aggressive behavior in dogs, and the importance of seeking help from a professional before it's too late.

The first dog Cesar meets is Copper, a young Belgian Malinois who has bitten his owner several times, resulting in hospitalization. Copper's owners are clearly afraid of him, and the tension between them is palpable. Cesar immediately puts Copper on a leash and begins evaluating his behavior. He quickly realizes that Copper is a high-energy dog who has not received the proper training or exercise to channel his energy in a positive way. He recommends a series of exercises and activities to help Copper burn off excess energy, including running, hiking, and playing fetch. Cesar also works with Copper's owners to establish clear rules and boundaries, and to build their trust in Copper so they can become confident leaders for him.

The second dog Cesar meets is a Pit Bull named Roxy, who has recently become aggressive towards her owner's boyfriend. Roxy's owners are on the verge of giving her up, and they are hoping Cesar can work a miracle and save their beloved pet. Cesar starts by observing Roxy's behavior and identifying the triggers that set her off. He discovers that Roxy is extremely territorial and protective of her home, and that she has not been properly socialized with visitors. Cesar works with Roxy's owners to introduce her to new people and build her confidence in unfamiliar situations. He also teaches them how to recognize and diffuse potential conflicts between Roxy and other dogs or humans. Throughout the episode, Cesar emphasizes the importance of being proactive when dealing with aggressive dogs and seeking professional help before it's too late.

One of the challenges of the episode is that both Copper and Roxy have already bitten people, which makes their behavior more difficult to modify. Cesar stresses the importance of getting bitten only once, and avoiding situations that might lead to future bites. He explains that dogs generally bite as a last resort when they feel threatened or afraid, and that biting is a clear sign that something is wrong. By understanding the root causes of a dog's aggression and addressing them in a systematic way, it is often possible to modify the dog's behavior and avoid further problems. However, Cesar cautions that there are no guarantees, and that every case is different. He encourages dog owners to take responsibility for their pets and seek professional help when they need it.

Overall, "Twice Bitten" is a compelling episode that underscores the importance of responsible dog ownership and proactive intervention when dealing with aggressive behavior. Cesar's expertise and compassion shine through as he works with Copper and Roxy, and the episode serves as a powerful reminder that with the right training and guidance, even the most difficult dogs can become loving and loyal companions.