Ep 28. Canine 9-1-1

In this episode of Dog Whisperer, titled Canine 9-1-1, renowned dog behaviorist Cesar Millan helps dog owners who are dealing with some of the most extreme cases of canine aggression and anxiety. From aggressive bulldogs and fearful Great Danes to reactive terriers and traumatized mixed breeds, Cesar uses his unique insight and techniques to help these dogs become well-behaved and happy members of their families.

In the first segment, Cesar meets Duke, a German Shepherd mix with a long history of aggression. Duke has attacked both his dog sibling and owner and is now on the verge of being given up by the family. Cesar quickly realizes that Duke's aggression is rooted in his anxiety and lack of leadership in the household. He teaches the family how to properly provide Duke with exercise, discipline, and affection to calm his anxieties and give him a clear sense of boundaries. Through a series of exercises and training, Cesar helps Duke become a calmer and more balanced dog, giving hope to the family that they can keep him and give him the proper care he needs.

The next case features Vida, a Great Dane who is afraid of almost everything. She cowers at loud noises, including the vacuum cleaner, and is terrified of going outside. Her owners are at a loss as to how to help her and have been keeping her inside for most of the day. Cesar helps Vida gain confidence through exposure to various stimuli and by introducing disciplined exercise and routine. By the end of the segment, Vida is a transformed dog, happily trotting outside and exploring her environment with her tail wagging.

In the third segment, Cesar takes on two Terriers, Chili and Pepper, who are constantly barking and lunging at people and other dogs. The family lives in a busy urban area and the dogs' behavior has become untenable in public spaces. Cesar determines that the dogs are experiencing a lack of exercise, discipline, and are not properly reading their owner's energy. His technique involves teaching the family how to communicate clear expectations to their dogs and providing opportunities for the dogs to gain confidence through obedience exercises.

In the final segment, Cesar tackles one of his most challenging cases yet -- a Pitbull mix named Queenie who has been through severe trauma. Queenie was found wandering the streets with a severe case of mange and has since been adopted by a loving family. But despite their best efforts, Queenie is still extremely fearful and reactive, often attacking other dogs and even her own owners. Cesar helps Queenie overcome her fears and anxiety by providing proper exercise, structure, and consistent leadership. His approach is gentle but firm, giving Queenie the confidence to feel safe and secure in her environment.

Throughout the episode, Cesar emphasizes the importance of providing dogs with exercise, discipline, and affection in equal measure. He also encourages dog owners to build consistent routines and to understand how their own energy and behavior can affect their dogs. While each case is unique and challenging in its own way, Cesar's techniques serve to show that with proper care and attention, even the most extreme cases of canine anxiety and aggression can be improved.