Daniel Kirwan, 30, of Rosslyn Crescent, Harrow, admitted using inappropriately harsh, potentially painful and frightening training methods on his Great Dane cross named Lizzie.
A neighbour who believed the dog was being beaten recorded video and audio clips capturing Kirwan’s interactions with the dog.
The footage showed little visually but the high-pitched yelp of the dog and a man shouting could be heard, the RSPCA said.
An animal behaviourist who analysed the clip said: “I could hear high-pitched yelps with long pauses between them, which in my opinion conveyed distress.
“I also noted several concerns from the defendant’s interview record which suggest Lizzie was subject to unnecessary treatment, including shouting and grabbing at her in an attempt to train and correct behaviour.
“These behaviours were likely to have been perceived as threatening by Lizzie and were likely to have maintained a fearful mental state and caused ongoing distress.”
On March 7 last year, RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer Holly Walker attended the flat with police and Lizzie was seized.
Ms Walker said the dog appeared unsure, submissive and anxious.
She said: “I found Lizzie’s behaviour very concerning and I genuinely believe she was frightened. She displayed this behaviour both in her home and out of it.”
Kirwan appeared for sentencing at Willesden Magistrates’ Court on December 20 after pleading guilty to one offence under the 2006 Animal Welfare Act.
In mitigation the court heard he was suffering from mental health and drug issues.
He was given a one-year community order including 15 hours of rehabilitation activities and a drug rehabilitation programme.
He was also banned from keeping dogs for seven years.
Speaking after the hearing, RSPCA Inspector Nicole Broster said: “Lizzie was a very fearful dog when she came into the care of the RSPCA because of the harsh treatment she was subjected to by her former owner.
“Listening to the audio clips was deeply upsetting due to the obvious fear and distress Lizzie was exhibiting.
“This was accompanied by bangs, thuds and very loud shouting, screaming and swearing which meant I was extremely concerned for Lizzie’s welfare.
“We are extremely grateful to members of the public who report their concerns about cruelty and mistreatment of animals so that we can investigate them.
“In this case we were able to secure a conviction which prevents the defendant from owning dogs for some time.”
