Frequently I get comments from clients about Cesar Millan, aka "The Dog Whisperer". I try and control myself, but I often visibly flinch when I hear that they follow his techniques. While I don't know Mr. Millan, I have seen enough of his widely distributed videos to form an opinion about his treatment of dogs. 

While he doesn't abuse dogs every second of his interactions, I view the following video as overall abusive, unnecessary, ill-informed, and horrible. 

I work with aggressive dogs on a daily basis, and only use humane strategies. Thankfully more and more trainers and dog owners are realizing that the following methods are unnecessary and abusive. 

I did not create this video, but want you to see it because it clearly dissects what is happening onscreen and why it is so horrific. Think of the poor dog getting repeatedly threatened, giving clear signals of stress and Mr. Millan continues pushing her until she bites. 

He then punches her. Yes, he PUNCHES her. There are more ridiculous, sad and avoidable interactions besides this. I have trouble watching this, but hopefully if you are looking for a trainer you will take the time to watch this and make sure the trainer you hire does not use these horrible strategies. 

I use scientific principles including desensitization and counter conditioning to successfully solve dog aggression. If you have questions about your dog, feel free to fill out your information on my Dog Training Information Form or visit my other website, and ask questions in my Dog Training Forum.

There are some trainers that I hold in high regard that would never "call out" another trainer like this and highlight the mistreatment. I feel, however, that as a professional that rehabilitates aggressive dogs it is important to make sure that everyone knows that this treatment is NOT okay, NOT necessary, and terribly sad. 

Whether you hire me or someone else, keep looking into you find someone that uses humane strategies. Contact references, look at testimonials, and Yelp reviews before hiring someone. If whether you are in or out of my travel area, you can also sign up for my dog training newsletter.

I hope you take the time to watch this video and learn how NOT to treat a dog. 

Other posts that you might find helpful:

Shy puppy now? Aggressive dog later?
Choke chains and other mistakes when working with dog aggression
Should you use alpha rolls? No. 
Losing your cool with your dog is never cool
How serious is your dog bite
Causes and treatment of dog on leash aggression
Why are dogs afraid of certain people