Dog Listening

Messiter makes the canine world more accessible to dog owners using the Amichien Bonding method, pioneered by dog behavioural expert Jan Fennell. "It's not about owners controlling their animal's behaviour, it's about creating an environment where dogs can think for themselves and operate self-control," she says.

Messiter is working with Flynn, my five-year-old Dalmatian, who can be aggressive around other male dogs. She diagnoses that Flynn is assuming the role of pack leader, and is acting up to protect his pack - me. I must work with Flynn to reassert my alpha position and help him feel confident that I, not he, will deal with any danger.

Dog listening involves working with a dog's natural instinct, using non-verbal cues to mimic the "alpha" behaviour displayed by the pack leader. I am to demonstrate leadership in four key areas: 1) Eating. I must eat first (unless the alpha stays strong and healthy, the whole pack is at risk). 2) Hunting (our walks). I am to be in control at all times, with Flynn on the lead, released from the "stress" of leading the walk. 3) Protection. I assess potential threats and deal with them accordingly. 4) Status. On arriving home I am to ignore Flynn and greet him only when I'm ready. This is hard for me.

After three weeks, Flynn no longer launches himself at other larger, fiercer breeds. I sense he is happier and I feel that I have mastered the art of "talking" dog. It is, after all, easier for us to learn their language than for them to learn ours.

The Details

Dog listening with Rachael Messiter costs £200, including follow-up support. www.talkingpaws.co.uk