The Dog Whisperer - Cesar Millan

Cesar Millan, the self-proclaimed “Dog Whisperer,” has a successful TV show, best-selling books, training DVDs, a magazine, and probably lots of other merchandise in the pipeline. His methods, though, are much maligned by trainers and others in the pet community.

I confess that I own three of his books: Be the Pack Leader, Cesar’s Way, and How to Raise the Perfect Dog: Through Puppyhood and Beyond. I also own a books by other trainers who advocate methods different from Cesar’s. Which method do I prefer? I prefer a mixture of both, actually.

I wholeheartedly agree with his critics that dominance is an archaic theory. The idea that “control” of the animal is achieved by lording over it, demanding submission, lost popularity long ago. In my opinion, our furry friends respond much better to more modern methods that achieve results by using natural instincts and play to teach desired behaviors.

I also disagree with the use of choke and shock collars. It breeds fear and distrust. It is interesting that, in his book Be the Pack Leader, Mr. Millan himself states that these collars are good if used by a proper trainer. The problem, though, is that few people actually do know how to properly use these devices. In the hands of an inexperienced trainer, I fear these tools create a ticking time bomb. Who pays for these training mistakes? The animal.

However, I do like some of his methods. Your pet is first and foremost an animal, not a miniature human. I cringe whenever I see a dog dressed in a tutu and carried around like an accessory. Buy a doll, for crying out loud! Don’t subject that poor animal to such stupidity.

Yes, you should have “rules, boundaries, and limitations.” They establish a structure and security that your furry friend will appreciate.

I find that his “calm assertive energy” theory is very true. To whip Gracie into a frenzied state, all I have to do is bark and howl. Soon, she is growling, barking, and howling. If I race around the room, she will too. Should I be upset that she does this? No, I induced it. I brought the anxious energy into the room.

I also agree that people often need more training than pets. I can read all the books in the world and attend lots of obedience classes. Unless I am committed to putting those techniques into action, it makes no difference.

I do not ascribe to any one training technique. It is my belief that you should educate yourself about lots of different methods, talk to professionals if you can, and develop your own personal plan that works best for your friend. Use love, not force or humiliation. And, most importantly of all, keep an open mind.

Rescue Mommy