By “Facundo,” a Chocolate Labrador Retriever from Madrid, Spain

I had no idea that meeting Cesar Millan, renowned dog behaviorist and star of The Dog Whisperer, would change my life forever. You see….apparently, I have “issues.” As a young pup, I wasn’t socialized around other dogs. So although I’m really sweet around people, I don’t really know how to behave properly around other dogs.

You would think that the strategy for a dog like me with dog aggression issues would be to keep me away from other dogs. Well….no such luck! The first thing Cesar did was to integrate me into a pack of balanced dogs. I felt a little overwhelmed at first, but I soon began to realize how natural the situation felt. After all, being able to coexist with other members of my own species should be normal, right?

The next step was for me to spend time with Cesar’s friend and assistant, Cheri. She is staying in an apartment right in the center of downtown. There’s lots of traffic, people, noise and other dogs – all things that used to make me a nervous wreck! We start each day with a one to two hour walk through hectic, high-energy downtown Madrid. What a challenge for a dog like me who struggles with over-excited energy! But I’m getting better at it every day.

After our walk, German, pronounced “Her-man,” part of the Spanish production crew, picks up me, Cheri and Cesar. The rest of the day is spent with Cesar, Cheri, the production team and the staff at the dog center. I’ve learned so much! They say I am a “natural” on the agility course. I sometimes go on walks throughout the day with Junior, Cesar’s Pit Bull.

I’m certainly getting lots of attention since Cesar came to Madrid. It’s a different kind of attention than I’m used to. I don’t get affection when I jump on people anymore. I have to wait for my food now instead of diving into it! I walk right next to Cesar and Cheri instead of pulling on the leash. The change feels good, and I’m actually enjoying the structure in my life now. I could get used to this “rules, boundaries and limitations” thing.

Read more about Cesar’s time in Spain:
• Reflecting on my Time in Spain
• Cesar Millan And Powwow Media Announce New Spanish Language TV Partnership