Nox The Lab Pit Mix

Nox is a 6 year old Pitt Lab mix adopted from a shelter around age 2 by a friend. This friend’s circumstances changed, so I took over Nox’s care around age 5. Nox struggles with handling big feelings in a safe way, particularly he responds to fear and suspicion by using aggression toward other people. We live in an apartment together, and it was absolutely chaotic. He barked at every noise, he lunged and pulled on every walk despite wearing a muzzle. We tried different training tools/methods - slip lead, halter, clicker, high value foods, etc. We were waking up at 4am every morning to go on walks and train outdoors with limited triggers. We were isolated and I never had anyone over to the apartment because of the difficult to manage behaviors and real risk to safety. 

After several months of having Nox by myself, I knew something had to change. We had consultations/evaluations with several trainers in the area - some said his case was too severe, some were simply not a good fit for us. I heard about G&S Dog Training through a family member whose friend trained with them after having a similar situation. I filled out the online evaluation request form, they contacted me, drove quite a distance to meet Nox and I for the evaluation, and immediately I knew they would be the best fit for us. George and Sarai were not only knowledgeable, they were compassionate, understanding, and incredibly supportive. Throughout training, they were responsive to questions/concerns, and provided clear guidance on training and handling. 

Fast forward to post graduation, Nox and I are going on walks during peak hours, we are driving around town together, I am able to have friends and family over. He is less stressed, I am less stressed, we are having FUN. I owe this to George and Sarai, without a doubt. Their love for animals and what they do is evident. Best dog trainers and humans around! 

P.S.

After Nox’s fear and aggression toward humans was managed, we learned, since we were no longer isolated, that he also has big reactions towards other dogs, specifically those with high energy. Instead of saying “well Nox’s training sessions are over”, George and Sarai offered to continue helping Nox through this at their Pack Walks. We did our first in March, and needless to say, there is already some progress.