Cesar Millan: Dog Whisperer

Cesar Millan is best known for his TV show “he Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan.” He is a self-taught dog trainer hailing from South Los Angeles. It is in Los Angeles that he runs a training facility for aggressive dogs.

Cesar’s Way

The dog whisperer trains dogs in what many people consider the “alpha dog” method. Basically, the owner has to become the pack leader or “alpha dog.” When the dog accepts this, the dog begins turning to the owner for direction and starts behaving as a calm dog.

On the show, Cesar teaches dog owners how to lead in a “calm assertive energy.” This energy is then transferred to the dog which is only rewarded when the dog maintains a calm state.

Additionally, training focuses on plenty of exercise. A worn out dog is a good dog. Plus, the exercise gives a chance for the dog and owner to bond, which allows the dog to see the owner as the pack leader.

Cesar Millan vs Victoria Stilwell

Cesar Millan (The Dog Whisperer) trains very different than Victoria Stilwell (It’s Me or the Dog.) Cesar presents his training style as “pack leader” while Victoria presents her style as “positive dog training.”

Followers of the positive dog training method have some issues with Cesar’s way of training. They consider the use of choke collars and how he confronts aggressive dogs cruel. The American Humane Association agreed at first but has since changed their stance after meeting with Cesar.

Personally, I use a combination of the two methods. I do think dogs need plenty of exercise and it helps the dog to bond with the owner. I also believe your dog needs to trust you to take care of everything (Cesar calls this pack leader.) I also strongly agree with positive reinforcement as an effective way to train dogs. I find rewarding good behavior is far better than ever having to correct bad behavior.

Cesar Millan Bibliographies and DVDs

Books:

• Cesar’s Way: The Natural, Everyday Guide to Understanding and Correcting Common Dog Problems. New York: Three Rivers Press. March 2007.
• Be the Pack Leader: Use Cesar’s Way to Transform Your Dog . . . and Your Life. New York: Three Rivers Press. March 2007.
• A Member of the Family: Cesar Millan’s Guide to a Lifetime of Fulfillment with Your Dog. New York: Three Rivers Press. March 2008.
• How to Raise the Perfect Dog: Through Puppyhood and Beyond. New York: Three Rivers Press. 2009.
• Cesar’s Rules: Your Way to Train a Well-Behaved Dog. New York: Crown Archetype. 2010.

DVDs:

• People Training for Dogs
• Becoming a Pack Leader
• Your New Dog: First Day and Beyond
• Sit and Stay the Cesar Way
• Common Canine Misbehaviors
• Raising the Perfect Puppy
• Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan – The Complete First Season, 2006
• Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan – The Complete Second Season, 2007
• Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan – The Complete Third Season, 2008
• Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan – The Complete Fourth Season, Volume 1, 2010
• Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan – The Complete Fourth Season, Volume 2, 2010
• Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan – The Complete Fifth Season, 2011