Whiskey’s Journey to Confidence

Whiskey, a 1-year-old Labrador/Dachshund mix, is a sweet and loyal companion to his owner in Albuquerque. Living on Guadalupe Trail, it’s just Whiskey and his owner at home, and she wanted to ensure he felt secure and happy in their space.

Focusing on Whiskey’s Needs

During Whiskey’s assessment, it was clear that his fear of strangers and the resulting anxiety were at the root of many of his behaviors. We made it our priority to focus on his reactivity toward people, building sessions around socialization and helping him feel safe in unfamiliar situations. Alongside that, we worked on basic commands like “down,” “come,” and “stay” to give him the structure and confidence he needed to thrive.

How We Helped Whiskey

Whiskey’s training plan was centered on reducing his fear and teaching him how to respond calmly in different situations.

Socialization Sessions

Most of our training focused on helping Whiskey get comfortable with new people. Gradually, we introduced him to myself and others in controlled settings, showing him that he was safe and didn’t need to feel defensive.

Basic Commands

We reinforced essential skills like “down,” “come,” and “stay” to help Whiskey feel more in control and connected to his owner. These commands also became tools to redirect his focus when he started to feel anxious or reactive.

Building Confidence

Through consistent practice and repetition, Whiskey began to trust the process and respond more positively to new situations. Each success was a step toward reducing his reactivity and building his confidence.

Celebrating Whiskey’s Progress

Whiskey, with his big personality and even bigger heart, showed that a bit of patience and practice can go a long way. He made noticeable improvements in both his behavior around people and his ability to follow basic commands. While his journey is ongoing, his progress highlights the importance of patience and consistent practice. Repetition is key for dogs like Whiskey to internalize and display new behaviors. With continued effort from his owner, Whiskey is on track to make even greater strides in the future.

Why Patience and Practice Matter

Whiskey’s story reminds us that dog behavioral challenges like anxiety and reactivity can be addressed with the right approach. By focusing on his specific needs and creating a supportive training environment, Whiskey has started to overcome his fears and gain confidence. Progress takes time, but with commitment and repetition, the bond between Whiskey and his owner will only grow stronger.

Tailored Solutions for Every Dog

If your dog struggles with anxiety, fear, or reactivity, Good Buddy Dog Training can help. Our personalized training plans are designed to address your dog’s unique challenges and help them feel secure. Reach out today to schedule an in-home assessment and start your dog’s journey to a calmer, happier life!