17/08/2026
When even a walk outside your house turns into a struggle, you need a structured plan to get your life back.
Nala, an adolescent German Shepherd, managed a good 20 minutes of walking on her street today.
For a while that was nearly impossible, or at least very hard, as she would get very overwhelmed and would bark the moment she got out.
And if she saw anyone, or a dog, she would lunge and shout at them even louder.
Her amazing owners realised that exposing her to the street was going nowhere, so they got in touch.
They were already doing the right things, so I added a bit more, like relaxation training, more play and engagement, and managing Nala at the window and doors, and it's all working!
Look at them, enjoying their walk as if that was the easiest stuff on Earth.
Of course we made sure there was nobody around, as we wanted Nala to experience a different walk, one when she was relaxed and engaged rather than hyper vigilant and tense.
We will add people and dogs later.
At Nala's age, the breed tendencies come out and a young dog doesn't always know how to handle the newly developed urges.
They may get territorial and defensive, but at the same time they may still want contact with people, so they go through an internal conflict when they see a stranger.
I was not welcomed in her house the first time I visited, but today she barked much less, and quickly came to say hello and then relaxed.
We have a lot to work on, but the progress so far has been phenomenal. Hats off to Nala's owners! You rock!
➡️ If you're in a similar situation with your dog, please reach out. You don't have to do it alone, help is just a phone call away.
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