Benji, a lively Cocker Spaniel, came to us with a few challenging behaviours. He was reactive due to barrier frustration, largely caused by over-socialisation. Benji also pulled strongly on the lead and struggled to settle down, making everyday life a bit of a handful for his owners.
During his time with us, we focused on improving Benji’s lead manners, and he now walks beautifully without pulling. We introduced the “place” command to encourage him to relax and take downtime, which has helped manage his arousal levels at home. To cater to his natural instincts and energy, we incorporated breed-specific fulfilment games to stimulate him both mentally and physically. We also worked on counter-conditioning around his triggers, helping him stay calm in situations that once caused stress.
Next Level have undoubtedly changed our life and most importantly Benji’s life. Benji has frustration reactivity to dogs and wildlife and his reactivity was very intense. We knew we made some mistakes in the socialisation period right away and have spent the last year trying to address his reactivity. The constant anxiety and worry was so difficult for us and we felt pretty hopeless, guilty and regretful of our decisions early on. Having tried 5 trainers/behaviourists, Benji was still just as reactive and his world was becoming so small – advice such avoid all triggers, 5-10 minute walk a day, medicate him. Benji is a lovely dog, enthusiastic, quick to learn so we felt that he was capable and deserved so much more than what he had.
Residential training was an incredibly difficult decision and it was heart wrenching to leave Benji for 4 weeks. However we felt that Benji would benefit from a consistent and intensive approach, and felt so assured after our initial phone call with Justin and seeing the amazing reviews. When I dropped Benji off I felt assured that he would be very well cared for by all of the staff. We thought the facilities were amazing. Our minds were soon put at rest when we started to get incredible updates and progress videos of Benji walking calmly around other dogs and animals. In many locations, bed work, impulse control, breed specific work, and it was lovely to see the amazing bond he had with Chris. He was having more fun than he’s probably ever had at home!
We attended NLDT for a training session mid-stay and then went back for the full handover at the end so we could meet Chris and observe how he worked with him before practicing until we felt comfortable to take him home. Chris and Justin were so supportive and encouraging. We felt really clear about the instructions given to us and how to ensure the success continues. It was especially lovely to see how much the staff, particularly Chris, enjoyed working with Benji. We felt a bit bad separating them! 😆
We went home with a clear plan and ready to dedicate ourselves to the consistency needed to keep up the amazing results. We now have a more confident and level headed dog who understands what he’s being asked. Since our handover we have continued with the bed training, heel work and breed specific play, and we continue to be able to walk past dogs and animals without reaction. Something we had lost all hope for only a few weeks ago! The biggest adjustment has definitely been letting go of all our tension and anxiety, but with practice we are learning to relax and are seeing the rewards of being consistent.
Huge thank you to Chris, Justin and everyone else in the team who worked with Benji. Your facility and dedication to the dogs is incredible and we can never explain how grateful we are. Residential is not a quick fix and requires onward consistency and hard work, but if it’s the route you are considering for your dog I could not recommend Next Level any more. Thank you!!! ❤️
Today, Benji is a much calmer and balanced Cocker Spaniel, ready to enjoy life with his family. He has now returned to his home in Lincoln, where he can continue his progress.
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