DIMITRIJE: A DOG MAGICIAN, HERE'S HOW

Meet Dimitrije Radanović, a certified dog behavior expert and trainer, trained in the United States with six certifications.

PHOTO: Radio Trebinje

"With dogs, there's no deception. They show you what they think and reveal their true character immediately. Their unconditional love for their owners is astonishing! Whatever happens, a dog will wag its tail and be overjoyed to see its owner. It's painful to see when people don't care for their dogs. That's why it's essential to think carefully before deciding to get a pet," Dimitrije explains.

His knowledge stems not only from a lifetime around dogs but also from formal training, extensive literature, and years of dedicated research into canine behavior and well-being. Dimitrije’s primary mission is fostering a perfect connection between dogs and their owners, a passion that has driven him for over a decade. His enthusiasm when discussing his work is evident, a clear sign of his dedication to this noble cause. After all, someone who loves animals is bound to have a heart for people, too.

Dimitrije’s journey began surrounded by dogs, continued through high school as a veterinary technician in Požega, and took him to various veterinary clinics in Trebinje, Novi Sad, and the U.S., where he gained invaluable experience working with dogs. Earlier this year, he returned to Trebinje with his wife, bringing his passion back to his hometown.

Dimitrije’s dedication to understanding dogs runs deep, evident in the warmth and calmness with which he speaks about these animals. This steadfast approach guides him, no matter the challenge, as he takes on the responsibility of working with both dogs and their owners.

"My late grandfather, a Trebinje native, became a veterinarian in Požega. My mother is a veterinary technician, and my aunt and uncle are also veterinarians. So I followed in their footsteps. I've always loved dogs; they were my constant companions. My serious work with animals began at the 'Animavet' clinic with Baćo Janković. Around that time, the UNDP initiated a project for sterilizing stray dogs in Trebinje, which brought a trainer to work with us. I met Kati Lofler, who observed my work, especially with an injured Doberman. She encouraged me to pursue dog training professionally, which led me to the United States to learn more. I was in Des Moines, Iowa, initially for three and a half months, but I decided to stay for the full seven months for a richer experience," says Dimitrije.

It was an unforgettable experience, from which Dimitrije learned immensely about himself and the dogs he worked with—about 60 to 70 different breeds over the past five years. The shelter housed over 180 dogs and nearly 1,000 cats at all times, staffed by over 3,000 volunteers. He was mentored by Mick McAuliffe, a pioneer in dog behavior study with three decades of experience, a true "magician" with animals.

Under McAuliffe’s guidance, Dimitrije mastered his “magic” in understanding and training dogs. “During those seven months, I focused on assessing dogs, resolving behavioral issues, and training. Working all day with dogs was incredible and fulfilling. I had to read many books initially, mastering the basics before taking on more complex tasks. Over time, I made important decisions regarding the dogs’ training and care. The experience enriched me beyond measure," Dimitrije shares.

Now back in Trebinje, he’s dedicated to studying dog behavior and creating healthy, unbreakable bonds between dogs and their owners. His goal is to teach people about dogs' needs and how to foster mutual cooperation for shared happiness.

“Out of love, people often unknowingly create problems for their dogs by being overly indulgent, which isn’t good. A dog is a dog, and a person is a person—that's how it is, whether we like it or not. As a Brazilian trainer once said, 'Start treating a dog like a human, and it’ll treat you the same way.' Dogs should not be humanized. I adore dogs—they’re wonderful friends—but they cannot be more important than their owners. Dogs need freedom to be dogs. They need to move and explore, not be carried around in strollers. To provide a dog with a quality life, there must be love, but also clear boundaries. These boundaries are essential for the dog’s well-being," Radanović asserts.