Walking your dog can be a relaxing and enjoyable experience, but if your dog is reactive, it can become stressful.

Reactivity in dogs refers to an exaggerated response to certain stimuli, such as other dogs, objects or people. This behaviour may manifest as barking, lunging, growling, or even trying to escape. Understanding why your dog is reactive and knowing how to manage it can make a world of difference.

What Causes Reactivity?

Reactivity is often rooted in fear, frustration, or overstimulation. For instance, a dog who had a negative experience with another dog may react aggressively to avoid what they perceive as a threat. Similarly, a dog on a leash might feel frustrated because they cannot interact freely with another dog. Genetics and lack of socialization can also contribute to reactivity.

What to avoid

Managing reactivity requires patience and a positive approach. Here are some things to avoid:

路 Punishment: Yelling, leash jerks, or using aversive tools like prong or shock collars can escalate fear and anxiety, making the behaviour worse. Punishment doesnB次元官网网址檛 address the cause and can erode your dogB次元官网网址檚 trust.

路 Forcing interactions: If your dog is afraid of other dogs or people, forcing them into close proximity can heighten their fear and reinforce reactive behaviour.

路 Ignoring your dogB次元官网网址檚 threshold: A dogB次元官网网址檚 threshold is the distance at which they can notice a trigger without reacting. Pushing them beyond this point can cause a meltdown, setting back progress.

Tips for managing reactivity on walks

1. Understand your dogB次元官网网址檚 triggers: Start by identifying what causes your dog to react. Common triggers include other dogs, cars, or unfamiliar people. Knowing what sets your dog off allows you to prepare and manage situations.

2. Keep your dog below threshold: Maintain enough distance between your dog and their trigger so they remain calm. Use your dogB次元官网网址檚 body language to gauge their comfort level. Signs like stiff posture, staring, shake-offs or lip licking indicate they might be nearing their threshold.

3. Use positive reinforcement: Reward behaviour with treats, praise, or toys. For example, if your dog notices another dog, reward them immediately. This helps them associate the trigger with positive outcomes.

4. Teach an alternate behaviour: Train your dog to focus on you instead of the environment. Cues like B次元官网网址渓ook at meB次元官网网址� or B次元官网网址渓etB次元官网网址檚 goB次元官网网址� can redirect their attention. Practice these cues in a calm environment before introducing them during walks.

5. Choose quiet walks: Opt for times and locations when and where youB次元官网网址檙e less likely to encounter triggers. Early morning or late evening walks, as well as, quieter trails, can reduce stress for you and your dog.

6. Use proper equipment: A well-fitted harness with a front-clip option can give you better control if your dog lunges. Avoid choke chains or other aversive tools.

7. Seek professional help: If your dogB次元官网网址檚 reactivity is severe, working with a reputable force-free dog trainer or behaviourist can provide tailored strategies and support.

Patience and consistency are key

Managing reactivity is a gradual process that requires consistency and understanding. By keeping your dog below threshold, and focusing on positive reinforcement, you can help your dog feel more confident. Remember, every small step forward is progress B次元官网网址� celebrate the victories, no matter how minor they seem.