I was given an eight week old highly pedigreed Doberman Pincher puppy. I mistakenly thought this puppy would be similar to all the “gundogs” I had reared and trained over the years. To my dismay this puppy proved to be too intelligent, too hyperactive, and too demanding of my time and presence. I and my friends became alternately dismayed and exhausted by his inability to ever be calm or to listen to commands, or to stop devouring my reading glasses, and any other expensive equipment he could find.He grew, and grew, and grew, and soon I had a 40kg boisterous, over affectionate dog on my hands who would lovingly throw himself at me when I was least expecting it. In desperation my friends suggested that I acquire the services of Zurab who was known to train and to understand the dog’s mentality.
Zurab agreed to assist me, and to have my dog trained in walking to heel outside of my property, where there were all sorts of distractions, and to be obedient to my commands in just two weeks. This has been achieved now, and I have learnt how to be “the boss” without raising my voice or my hand.
The mental strength that I am now able to exercise over such an intelligent dog is quite awesome, and my deepest thanks go to this proven “Dog Whisperer”.
Zurab is from Moscow in the Soviet Union, and has always had an animal in his life and his home. He has been in South Africa for about 20 years, living in Durban, and Port Elizabeth, where he had dog training schools. He trained dogs from puppy to adult classes, and preferred to have only 8-10 dogs in a class. He has been a member of the Kennel Union of South Africa, and has occasionally bred dogs for show purposes. He believes in the socialization of dogs. Zurab says that he has the intention of breeding the American Staffordshire terrier at some future date.
Zurab became aware of his affinity with animals when he did his two year compulsory military training in Russia. He was taught to train dolphins in the Black Sea for military purposes, and formed a great love and bond with them. Zurab stressed that with all animals you have to make them accept you as their leader. This makes dealing with the animal easier, and the animal becomes a great deal happier, as it no longer has that responsibility. I am hoping that Zurab will start a training and socialization class for all the lovely dogs that we have in Aberdeen. Apart from having an obedient dog it will be wonderful socialization for the owners as well. Zurab can be reached on 078 2006 480.
Article By: Joan Tinker
