1. Ted is one of my 12 year old red and white border collies. Until two years ago, despite being well trained and obedient, he was overprotective of me - regularly barking, growling or snapping at some passers-by and other dogs. I never felt completely relaxed when walking him at our local dog beach or if strangers, especially with children, approached us when we were sitting at an outdoor café.

I came to understand he was taking up the leadership role and felt responsible for protecting me when we were out. Looking back, I can see how I unwittingly reinforced this belief over the years.

Consistent application of Amichien Bonding principles saw Ted readily give up his leadership role to me. Now he is relaxed and unfussed by strangers when we are out and about. It is such a joy for me to feel calm and relaxed, and to be confident of his good behaviour. Family and friends are amazed at his transformation.

2. Shadow is my other beautiful blonde Border Collie. Six years ago when I moved from rural acreage to the suburbs, Shadow's persistent barking developed into a real problem. He too was successful in obedience classes and was a well behaved dog, other than for the barking. I tried every possible method to control him including specialist dog trainers, and even cruel and nasty anti-barking collars, but everything failed. Shadow too was operating in a leadership role - to deter potential "invaders" and protect his pack. It has taken patient and consistent application of Amichien Bonding principles, but now it's unusual to hear Shadow bark more than once, a few times a day, and I live near a busy walkway. He is relaxed and content to look to me for leadership. Thankfully the days of me worrying about neighbourhood complaints seem long ago.

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