05/18/2026
So I got a call from a customer I first worked with about 2 1/2 years ago. We only did 3 lessons together back then and honestly I never heard back after that, so I figured things were going good and they didn’t need more help.
Then a couple weeks ago I get a call saying they were stressed about an upcoming vet appointment and could really use my help making the visit go smoothly since we made such great progress the last time I worked with Duke, the German Shepherd. 🐾
So today I met them at the vet and here’s how it went 👀
When I approached, Duke immediately showed aggression. Lunging, barking, throwing pressure my way… but I noticed something important almost immediately.
Every time I would approach him, he would back up.
And every time I backed up, he would lunge toward me again.
That told me he didn’t actually want to bite me. If a dog truly wants conflict, they close distance with intent. Duke was creating space, not hunting me down. He was basically saying:
“You stay over there and we’re good.”
That’s fear, pressure, insecurity, and defensive behavior… not a dog looking to cause damage.
That’s what so many people misunderstand about aggression. A lot of dogs aren’t “bad dogs.” They’re overwhelmed, stressed, insecure, or feel like they have to handle the situation themselves because nobody else is taking control.
So I looked at the owner and said:
“Hand me the leash.”
The second I took over, the energy started changing. No yelling. No panic. No fighting with the dog. Just calm structure, timing, communication, and leadership. Within minutes Duke went from trying to control the entire environment to being able to settle and work through the situation calmly. 🐕⚡
And the craziest part?
This was after only 3 lessons… 2 1/2 years ago.
That’s why I always say dog training is way deeper than teaching commands. Anybody can teach “sit.” Real training is understanding psychology, body language, thresholds, confidence, trust, and communication.
he did really well despite the look on his face with the vet holding him he didn’t show any signs of aggression to them just extremely nervous but didn’t act on anything! Allowed them to check his hips and administer shots!
Watch the video below for the end results 👀🔥