
24/06/2025
Meet Milo 🐾
Milo is a rescue dog who came into care following a complex and likely traumatic background. His genetics, early adverse experiences, and the specific circumstances of his relinquishment have all contributed to a more challenging behavioural profile.
Upon arrival in his new environment, Milo exhibited fear-based behaviours specifically directed towards one member of the household. These behaviours suggested a pre-existing negative association that required careful, structured techniques to rebuild trust. Through consistent, reward-based interventions and a targeted behaviour modification plan, we have seen encouraging progress. Milo now regularly enjoys time with that family member and has formed a strong bond with them.
In addition to this challenge in his relationship with a household member, Milo also exhibited reactivity toward other dogs.
Reactivity of this nature can stem from a range of underlying emotional states. Understanding the functional cause of reactivity is essential, without accurately identifying the emotional drivers behind the behaviour, any intervention strategy is unlikely to succeed and may even exacerbate the issue.
We are now beginning to see clear and significant improvements in Milo’s responses. Our most recent sessions have been extremely positive, with a noticeable shift in his overall mood state.
It is important to emphasise that behavioural change in dogs, especially those with histories like Milo’s, is not a quick process. True behavioural rehabilitation requires a consistent, evidence-based approach led by a qualified animal behaviourist. Misdiagnosis or reliance on generic training methods can be counterproductive or even harmful.
Each dog is an individual, and behavioural presentations that appear similar on the surface can arise from very different motivations. For example, one dog’s reactivity may be fear-driven, another’s may stem from frustration at being unable to access stimuli, while another may involve predatory responses. This underscores the importance of a thorough behavioural assessment, ideally conducted by a practitioner recognised by an accredited body.
Milo’s progress so far is a testament to the importance of caregiver patience, accurate assessment, and individualised behavioural support. He still has a journey ahead, but he is making wonderful progress. 👏