22/08/2026
Today, I was sent this video—and I cannot tell you how excited it made me.
Why?
Because it shows someone visiting Patch’s home while Patch remains relaxed. He isn’t barking, lunging or trying to bite. Instead, he is calmly sharing his space and choosing to interact positively.
For many dogs, this might not seem extraordinary. For Patch, it is enormous.
Patch was rescued from a traumatic background after being bred on a dog meat farm in Asia. He is now 10 years old, has previously been deemed “unhomable” and, at one point, was at risk of being put to sleep. He also has a significant bite history.
When I took on Patch’s case, I had to be completely honest with his family: we might not be able to “fix” everything. Our work might need to focus primarily on careful, lifelong management. Behavioural euthanasia was also a part of the conversation and potential plan.
Ultimately, only Patch could decide whether he was ready to begin trusting people. Considering his age, his experiences and everything he had learnt about humans, I couldn’t promise how far we would get.
Before I became involved, another trainer had told his family that Patch was fixable and used a slip lead to physically restrain and correct him—lifting him to the point that only his back paws could barely reach the floor. For a dog already frightened of people, this created yet another terrifying experience and reinforced the belief that humans were not safe.
So, we took a very different approach.
We worked on helping Patch feel safe. We gave him choices, listened to his communication and ensured that he wasn’t placed in situations he couldn’t cope with. We used patience, consistency and positive reinforcement to begin rebuilding his trust.
During our session this week, I entered Patch’s home for the first time without him being held on a lead. I then entered the living room while he was completely loose.
I sat down and allowed Patch to make every decision about interacting with me. During the session, he gave me several hand licks, rubbed his head against my hand and even chose to sit on my feet.
Patch’s interactions must always happen on his terms. Other than with his owners, I consider him a no-touch dog unless he clearly chooses otherwise. His sense of safety will always matter more than our desire to touch him.
Now, back to this video…
Someone is visiting Patch’s home, and he is relaxed, comfortable and interacting positively. His lead is attached as a safety measure—but with another positive meeting or two, there is every possibility that it may no longer be needed with this particular person.
This is what progress looks like.
Not forcing a dog to submit.
Not suppressing their communication.
Not demanding affection or compliance.
It is creating safety, building trust and allowing the dog to move forward at their own pace.
Dogs really are incredible. Despite everything that may have been done to them, so many are still willing to try—when we work with them patiently, knowledgeably and compassionately.
Patch, I am so unbelievably proud of you. ❤️
If you are struggling and want help with reactivity or issues that you deem aggressive in nature you can get in touch via WhatsApp on 07703 973656 or visit www.bondeddog.com
