I visited the Dumb Friends League in February of 2003 and fell for a 3 year old Australian Shepherd mix.  He was a lost dog and the staff had affectionately named him Burrito.   After the adoption, it became apparent that he had some aggression toward other dogs.  Some dogs he was fine with, but with others he would growl and lunge; I never knew how he would react.  I'd never had an aggressive dog before and the stress of this behavior was really hurting our relationship.

Initially, we enrolled with a trainer that professed to use humane methods, only to find that they relied on choke chains.  After a few sessions, I was told that Burrito was vicious and may never be able to play with other dogs.  The final straw was when the trainer yanked upward with Burrito's leash, essentially hanging him with the choke
chain.  We left immediately.

Frustrating months had passed when a coworker showed me the Wag and Train website.  The methods used sounded very promising, so I scheduled a private session.  Kari gave me detailed instructions and tips on how to establish myself as the "alpha dog".  To my great surprise, she also determined that Burrito did not need the Growl class and would benefit from the Basic Obedience class.

Slowly, Burrito grew more comfortable and confident around the dogs in his class.  By the conclusion of the 6 week class he was allowed to play off leash with a few of his classmates.  The change in him due to the class and establishing myself as the "alpha dog" was remarkable. After a few months of work, we no longer cross the street to avoid other dogs on our walks.  Burrito now loves to play at an off leash dog park and attends doggie daycare several times a week.  He is such a happy and social dog now.  I am so grateful to Kari for her help and guidance.

Owner: Dana Steeples and Burrito