Territorial Aggressive Australian Shepherd Transformed In 6 Weeks

Well Peeps!
We have another dramatic transformation for a one time, fiercely fearful 3 yr old dog, with some serious territorial/protective aggression.
You see, Via was okay outside of her home - at least she wasn’t lunging or trying to bite dogs or stranger. Groomers, vet techs, dog parks & daycares (although we never advise), and public access adventures did little to trigger this high anxiety girl to growl or snap. Put her back at home base, and Via would attack ANYONE that came through the door, even those she’s known since early adoption, like her Mom’s Sister (also her roommate)!
So what can happen in a handful of highly structured weeks for an insecure, nervous, unpredictable dog with a bite history?
A whole lot!
Via spent 6 weeks at PAWSitively Calm,LLC, undergoing a full behavioral makeover. As with every dog with major behavioral issues, the primary ingredients for a complete transformation are clear relationship dynamics, boundaries and rules that are consistently enforced, a permission-only lifestyle, settling the overactive mindset, proofing mindset around unpredictability, cultivating SOLID impulse control, reliable on and off-leash obedience, the right tools to ensure compliance, and a bit of dog whispering magic.
Of course, we also insisted upon play with other dogs and snuggles with us!
And last, but certainly not least, we educated the Via’s owner - not just how to give a handful of fancy parlor tricks, nor how to function the tools necessary for reinforcement, but the incredibly important “why’s” behind Via’s tendencies, and how the owner’s interactions contributed to Via’s unhealthy behavior, or hindered the potential for any progress.
Put all that juicy stuff together, and you’ve got a pretty solid map for continued success. We’re not talking about the success behind solid obedience. We’re referring to the success of a dog that has found true wellbeing and an owner that has done the work to become the person her dog requires of her!