We had eagerly anticipated getting a dog for several years, envisioning the incredible bond and joy we would experience. The day we welcomed Machu Picchu into our lives was indeed a special one, but the day we began his training with Mimi was the best day ever.
Our initial vision of a confident and well-behaved dog quickly faded as we discovered that Machu was incredibly insecure and fearful. Machu's behavior was far from what we had anticipated. His excessive barking became a constant presence, even just entering a room would trigger it. We found ourselves unable to invite people over, as his reactions to any movement would escalate into chaotic barking. The dream of a dog we could take anywhere quickly faded away, as Machu reacted intensely to every little thing during walks and car rides. Passing cars, bicycles, pedestrians, you name it—anything in motion would set him off. We resorted to walking him late in the evening, hoping to avoid encounters with people and other dogs, as these interactions triggered his uncontrollable behavior. Walking him on leash was a challenge in itself, as he would pull in every direction, mark territory excessively, even when there was nothing left to release. Compliance was partial at best, only when treats were presented as an incentive.
Since starting our training sessions with Mimi, our dog's world has transformed in the most incredible way. We introduced structure into his life, expanding his horizons and offering him a sense of security. The progress has been remarkable. Machu now walks calmly on the leash, making pack walks an enjoyable experience. He can also relax when we have guests over, showing curiosity towards people and even making a few human friends. Taking him to new places has become less overwhelming, as his reactions have become more manageable. His confidence has grown significantly, although we acknowledge there is still a journey ahead. Witnessing him blossom and discovering his true personality has been an absolute delight. While Machu still possesses his unique quirks, don't we all? It's all part of what makes him the wonderful and individual dog he is becoming.
Mimi has been an incredibly patient guide for us throughout this entire process. Whether in person or through text and email, she consistently addressed our questions with understanding and expertise. Her knowledge on dog training has been evident as she tailored each session to meet our specific needs. We greatly valued her reliability and promptness, appreciating that she always arrived on time for our sessions and maintained clear communication throughout the training journey.
What truly stood out to us was Mimi's approach of involving us in the training. She actively encouraged our participation, equipping us with the necessary knowledge and tools to continue Machu's training even after the sessions concluded. This not only empowered us as dog owners but also ensured that the positive changes we witnessed would endure in the long run. We are grateful for her guidance which has been instrumental in shaping Machu into the remarkable dog he is becoming.
Thanks for being awesome, Mimi
-Machu's Owner