What was going on
Slim is a two-year-old Border Collie x Kelpie: intelligent, high-energy, and constantly scanning for something to do. On walks, that translated into lead pulling, reacting to other dogs, being possessive over his ball (and fighting other dogs for theirs), and trying to herd buses.
Serena and her family also have a second, calmer dog. Walking them together had become nearly impossible. Slim’s reactivity and intensity made every outing stressful. What should have been quality family time felt like a chore.
What Serena had tried
Serena knew Slim was a smart dog who could learn things quickly. The challenge was knowing how to channel that intelligence in the right direction. The family was keen to work with a trainer and Marianne came highly recommended by their pet behaviour vet.
What we did
We worked with Serena through our Walk & Train program, focusing on engagement: teaching Slim that paying attention to his humans was more rewarding than reacting to everything else. The sessions used different games and commands designed to redirect Slim’s focus during walks.
The key insight: if Slim was more interested in Serena than in other dogs, buses, or balls on the ground, the reactivity would naturally decrease. That’s exactly what happened.
What changed
Serena and her family now feel confident walking Slim. The walks are enjoyable again. Not just manageable, but something the whole family looks forward to. Slim enjoys learning new things, and Serena enjoys teaching him.
As Serena put it: “We look forward to walks together as a family.”
And Slim? “Even though he is full of energy he is a ball of sweetness and his face always says I love you.”
