In The Dog House, a TV show that aired from 2007 to 2010 on Animal Planet, followed dog expert Brad Pattison and his team of trainers, Mark Stephen and John Stephen, as they tackled some of the most challenging dog behavior problems. The show was set in Vancouver, Canada, and featured dog owners seeking help for their pets' destructive, aggressive, or anxious behavior.
The show was notable for its unique approach to dog training, which involved a blend of physical and psychological techniques to address the underlying causes of a dog's behavior. Brad Pattison, the lead trainer, was known for his unconventional methods, which included using body language, eye contact, and touch to communicate with dogs. He believed in treating a dog like a pack leader and emphasizing mutual respect rather than dominance.
In each episode, the team would assess the dog's behavior and try to pinpoint the root cause of the problem. They would then devise a customized training plan that addressed the dog's individual needs and personality. One of the standout features of the show was its focus on intensive training sessions, which often lasted several hours or even days.
Throughout the show, viewers got to see the impressive transformations that occurred in the dogs' behavior, often ending with the formerly aggressive or anxious pets becoming calm and obedient. The transformations were a testament to the dog trainers' abilities and their commitment to helping dogs become better-behaved and happier.
Aside from the training sessions, In The Dog House also provided viewers with useful tips and tricks for dealing with common dog behavior problems. Whether it was how to stop a dog from barking incessantly or how to prevent a dog from chewing on furniture, the show provided practical advice that viewers could apply to their own pets.
One of the other standout features of the show was the importance placed on the role of the owner in a dog's behavior. The trainers emphasized that a dog's behavior was often a reflection of the owner's own behavior and attitude. By helping owners understand how to communicate better with their pets and establish clear boundaries, the trainers were able to create long-lasting changes in both the dog and owner's behavior.
Overall, In The Dog House was an engaging and informative show that provided valuable insights into the world of dog training. By focusing on the root causes of behavior problems and using a holistic approach to training, the show succeeded in helping countless dogs and their owners.