Sunday evening, I was flipping through the channels when I came across a program called
NATURE’s Underdogs that tells the story of two dogs whose lives were saved by people who saw their potential for greatness and gave them jobs.

Holly, a young bloodhound had been through several homes and was at the end of her rope at a rescue shelter, when a professional who trains dogs for law enforcement agencies spotted her. He saw a young dog who was smart but needed to have a job in order to end her destructive behavior.

Herbie, a bearded collie, lived tethered on a chain at a farm and was at risk of being shot by a farmer because he would bite sheep instead of herd them. A sheepdog trainer took Herbie under her wing because she saw a dog with a strong personality who needed to learn his job with gentle but firm coaching.

The website describes the program, "Beginning with the initial meeting between dog and trainer, viewers follow the trainers as they apply their professional skills to transform these misfit mutts into the noble working dogs they were bred to be. As their stories unfold, we witness the powerful bond that develops between trainer and pupil." Click on the Schedule tab on the website and enter your zip code to get the upcoming air times of the program. 

I talk to many trainers throughout the Twin Cities, and many of them have similar comments about misfit dogs: "The dog just needs to know the rules." Or "The dog needs a job and more exercise." This program illustrates the truth behind these sentiments.

It breaks my heart to know that more than 80% of the dogs who end up at shelters have no training. Dogs are surrendered every day because owners are fed up with their destructive behavior, digging, barking, nipping…etc.

Many bad or annoying behaviors can be eliminated or diminished by understanding why the dog is "acting out" and providing it an appropriate venue. There are many agility classes, herding, earth dog clubs and lure coursing clubs. The list is endless. Find what motivates your dog and go for it. It may lead you to discover a new side of life and a bit of yourself.