
28/06/2025
Spotlight on Mr Murphy
Murphy is a 3 year old Smithfield Terrier. We’ve been working together for several years now, weekly sessions. Murphy had a bit of a rough start having been sent to his new owner from the breeder at the end of the critical period (16 weeks) with limited socialisation. Following that, he has been rushed and attacked by numerous off-lead and roaming dogs in his home neighbourhood whilst on walks. All of this resulted in some extreme anxiety and fear based reactivity toward people, dogs, cars, bikes and trucks - on sight at over 50m distance. We have successfully overcome his lead pulling, lunging and barking at all vehicles and people. He can maintain a loose lead as he passes dogs exhibiting boundary frustration/territorial behaviours. He can maintain neutrality within 20m of unfamiliar dogs. We are now working on veterinary exposure to help build confidence and reduce anxiety so that a thorough examination can be conducted. He has come such a long way, his incredibly dedicated owner has put countless hours into his training, exercise and desensitisation. Murphy is testament that any situation can be improved if owner, dog and trainer are committed to working together as a team and letting the dog set the pace. It won’t happen overnight, but it will happen. Goals are important, are your goals for your relationship with your dog suitable to their breed and individual traits?