Ep 11. Spoiled Rotten

In season 4 episode 11 of Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan, titled "Spoiled Rotten," Cesar helps two families whose dogs are ruling the roost.

In the first segment, Cesar visits the home of Penny, a Jack Russell Terrier who has been spoiled since she was a puppy. Penny is now a year and a half old and has become possessive of her owner, Karen. Penny growls and barks at anyone who comes near Karen, including her husband and children. Karen is afraid to discipline Penny because she loves her so much, but she is also tired of living in fear of her own dog.

Cesar observes that Penny is not respecting Karen's boundaries and is treating her like a littermate rather than a pack leader. He teaches Karen how to assert her authority and show Penny that she is in charge. Cesar also addresses the underlying emotions driving Penny's possessiveness, which turns out to be fear and anxiety.

In the second segment, Cesar meets a family with two dogs, a Chihuahua named Paco and a Doberman named Lola. Paco is overweight and barks incessantly, while Lola is hyperactive and destructive. Both dogs are extremely spoiled and have pushed their owners, Alan and Alicia, to their limit.

Cesar works with Alan and Alicia to establish rules and structure for the dogs, as well as exercise and affection routines that will help them feel more secure and less needy. He takes the dogs for a walk and teaches Alan and Alicia how to communicate with them effectively. He also addresses the underlying emotions driving the dogs' behavior, which include boredom and a lack of fulfillment.

Throughout the episode, Cesar emphasizes the importance of balance and structure in a dog's life. He teaches the owners how to provide exercise, discipline, and affection in a way that meets their dogs' needs and respects their individual personalities. He explains that spoiling a dog can actually lead to anxiety and insecurity, and that a dog who feels safe and secure in its pack leader's presence is a happy and well-adjusted dog.

By the end of the episode, both families have made significant progress in their relationships with their dogs. Karen is no longer afraid of Penny and is able to enjoy her company without feeling overwhelmed. Alan and Alicia have a better understanding of Paco and Lola's needs and are able to provide them with the structure and discipline they crave. Cesar reminds them that the journey to being a great dog owner is ongoing, but with patience and dedication, they can create a happy and balanced life for their furry family members.