Understanding Lucy: How Da Bones Helped a Misunderstood Pup Find Trust
At Da Bones, we understand that when life shapes a dog's personality, it can sometimes lead to fear-based reactivity. Lucy, a lovable but misunderstood pup, had a jaw so powerful it intimidated everyone who met her. As a Rottweiler mix with a large, strong jaw, her appearance alone could spark fear. This, combined with her loud barks and growls, made it challenging for her owners to invite people into their home. Even the cleaners had to ensure Lucy was securely locked in a room before stepping inside.
Lucy’s behavior wasn’t rooted in aggression but in fear and mistrust. Thankfully, Mariah and Kendrick, our leads at Da Bones, were the perfect pair to help her through this. With Mariah’s gentle approach and the treats from our online shop, and Kendrick’s calm strength and patience, they were able to slowly guide Lucy out of her fearful, reactive state. Kendrick’s ability to not react to Lucy’s barking and growling, especially given her fear of men, was key in helping her feel safe.
Within just three days, Lucy began to calm down. Kendrick took her on walks, fed her, and let her “talk” by barking and growling without responding in a way that would escalate her fear. This patient, consistent approach led to a transformation that not only eased Lucy’s anxiety but also allowed her owners to enjoy a more peaceful home life.
At Da Bones, we believe that every dog deserves to feel safe, secure, and understood. Our team, while not all professional dog trainers, are all skilled dog communicators. We stand by our commitment to being the voice for dogs, ensuring that even during something as simple as a walk, your pet is understood and supported.
If you’re a pet parent struggling with a fear-based reactive dog, we recommend working with a professional trainer to address these issues. At Da Bones, we offer these services and are dedicated to making sure that your dog receives the care and understanding they need to thrive.