Ep 6. Last Chance at Love

In the season 4, episode 6 of "It's Me or the Dog", titled "Last Chance at Love," dog trainer Victoria Stilwell is called in to help a couple whose relationship is on the rocks due to their unruly dog, Bella. Bella is a five-year-old Pit Bull mix who has developed a habit of jumping up on guests, stealing food, and barking excessively.

The couple, Katie and Dave, have been in a long-distance relationship for the past year and decided to move in together with Bella. However, Bella's behavior has become a major source of tension between them. Katie complains that Dave doesn't discipline Bella enough and lets her get away with bad behavior, while Dave thinks Katie babies Bella and gives her too many treats.

Victoria first observes Bella's behavior and notices that she is highly anxious and reactive around strangers, often jumping up and barking at them. She also sees that Bella is easily distracted and doesn't respond well to commands, indicating a lack of training and consistency.

Victoria then sits down with Katie and Dave to discuss their relationship and Bella's role in it. She explains that dogs thrive on routine and boundaries, and that they need to work together to establish a clear set of rules and expectations for Bella.

Victoria then begins to work with Bella using positive reinforcement techniques, such as clicker training and rewards for good behavior. She helps Katie and Dave to understand the importance of consistency in training and shows them how to communicate effectively with Bella.

Throughout the episode, there are several setbacks and challenges, such as Bella's fear of the vacuum cleaner and her tendency to steal food from the table. However, Victoria remains patient and persistent, helping Katie and Dave to overcome these obstacles and make progress with Bella.

In the end, there is a breakthrough moment when Bella successfully obeys a series of commands, showing that she is capable of learning and following rules. Katie and Dave also make progress in their relationship, learning to communicate better and work as a team when it comes to Bella.

Overall, "Last Chance at Love" is a heartwarming episode that showcases the importance of patience, empathy, and consistency when it comes to dog training. It also highlights how dogs can bring couples closer together or drive them apart, depending on how they are managed and trained. Victorias' positive reinforcement techniques proves that patience, consistency and positive attitudes can accomplish great things with dogs.