If you own a dog, the name Cesar Millan is up there with Dr. Doolittle. As “The Dog Whisperer” on The National Geographic Channel, he’s a Supernanny for pets, helping frustrated owners tame bad dogs by becoming “the pack leader.”
His alpha-dog techniques have earned him plenty of critics, many of them fellow dog trainers who think Millan’s way is too extreme for everyday use. But the success of Cesar Millan, Inc. — which sells DVDs, dog supplies and even his own magazine, Cesar’s Way — is proof of his devoted following.
The Post spoke to Millan before his visit to Long Island’s North Shore Animal League for the group’s annual Pet Adoptathon event, which takes place this weekend.
Having a dog in New York City can be a challenge. What are your tips?
I don’t think it’s an issue to live with a dog in a small apartment. But people who live in the city bring the dog into the intimate space without setting rules, boundaries and limitations. So the dog feels like, “When you’re in the kitchen, I can go in there too. When you’re eating, I can bug you to give me food. When you go to bed, I can go with you. When somebody knocks at the door, I’m going to jump on that person.” The dog is living in this chaotic way. So you should never choose a dog with higher energy than yourself.
What do you think of women who carry small dogs in their purses?
It’s not natural. Biologically, females are meant to be mothers by a certain age. They’re honoring that. And they’re also honoring fashion. But my suggestion is: Walk the dog before you put him in the bag.
People want only the best for their dogs. But what do dogs really need?
Dogs care about how much common sense and love and spirituality the human has. Those are needs you can’t buy. The dog doesn’t care if he lives with a smart or rich human. Homeless people have dogs.
After doing your show for six years, do you think your message about being the pack leader is getting through?
Yes, even to people without dogs — therapists, coaches, marriage counselors, school teachers — they’re using the “pack” metaphor. You have to set rules, boundaries and limitations. People want to be good pack leaders.
Your critics say that people shouldn’t try to replicate your training techniques at home.
They shouldn’t. You can’t really practice what I’m doing with the dogs on the show because it’s tailored to their specific needs. We’re showing you what is possible. But everyone can provide exercise and affection — I think all trainers would agree with that.
Does the criticism get to you?
No. Every time somebody does something great for humanity they’re going to see others disagreeing with it. I see it as a challenge I need to overcome. Oprah gets it. Gandhi got it.
Do you look up to Oprah?
Oh, yes. Whatever she has, I want it. I want to be the male Oprah!
Would you be happy without the fame and money?
I was happy since I jumped the border from Mexico, ma’am.
pets@nypost.com