“Dog whisperer” Ingrid Grayling tells me the residential courses are aimed at owners whose pets are at risk of getting lost when they are let off the lead in rural areas because they make a mad dash for freedom and hare off.

Ingrid's methods rely on a combination of psychology with the giving of lavish praise for obedience - plus, say many owners, the influence of her own personality which seems to command almost instant compliance from even the most boisterous and unruly mutts.

I wouldn't mind sending young Rufus for a session with her!