Still Have a Reactive Dog?

Dog reactivity is a common behavior many owners suffer with alone. This should not be the case. There are so many resources and trainers who specialize in this behavior and help you manage it. As an owner of a reactive dog I know the journey is long and hard but it will pay off in the long haul. If you have tried everything and are still struggling with your reactive dog please keep reading and reach out for help if needed. 

Reactivity is not a behavior you can fix. If a trainer tells you otherwise they do not have experience in canine behavior. I own a reactive dog, not how I used present tense. She is a who she is and I have accepted that. The first step to help manage your dog is acceptance, understanding and working through it. There is no timeline to how long each step can take and they can be interchangeable based on where you are on your dog’s journey. 

What is Reactivity? 

Reactivity is an overreaction to external stimuli. Usually it is displayed in barking and lunging. The triggers are commonly people, dogs, animals, cars, noises, etc. It is a reaction to a trigger that upsets your dog. 

Why are they reactive?

Fear 

Frustration 

Learning History 

How to help ?

Emergency U Turn

Face Front 

Switch back 

Avoid at All Costs 

Human Barrier 

Magnet tool

Here are some other blog posts about reactive dogs. 

Please remember to never compare yourself to others as your dogs journey is simply that. Take the good days with the bad. Always accept and be your dogs advocate. You can always reach out if you need help.

Need more help with your dog’s reactivity stay tuned for our new eBook, Positively managing your reactive dog. Always contact me for virtual or in person sessions as well.