Reactive Dog Training

Helping your dog starts with recognising what triggers reactive behaviours. Many dogs react to situations based on their emotions or past experiences, which can shape how they respond to the world around them.

• Fear and Anxiety: Barking, lunging, or other defensive behaviours often stem from fear. Dogs may react this way to protect themselves or create distance from perceived threats, especially if they lack confidence or have had negative experiences in the past. Learn more about recognising and managing these emotions in our blog post on Dog Fear and Anxiety.
• Frustration: Social dogs, when restrained by a lead, may become frustrated because they can’t greet others or explore freely. This bottled-up excitement can quickly turn into reactive behaviours.
• Early Life Experiences: Puppies who miss out on socialisation or have negative encounters during their development can grow into dogs with lasting fears. These early experiences can make similar situations difficult for them to handle later in life.

Recognising these factors allows you to take meaningful steps to reduce stress and build your dog’s confidence. Start small, take it one step at a time, and you’ll soon see your dog feeling calmer, more secure, and better able to handle challenging situations.

Dogs can show reactivity in various ways, and learning to recognise these signals early can help you support them more effectively. Vocalisations such as barking, whining, or growling often mean your dog feels fearful, threatened, or overwhelmed. Physical behaviours like lunging on the lead, trying to escape their collar, or grabbing at your clothing can signal that they are struggling to cope. Look out for subtle cues too, including excessive drooling, raised hackles, freezing, or the “whale eye” (where the whites of their eyes are visible), which can appear before more obvious signs escalate.

Noticing these behaviours early gives you the chance to redirect your dog’s focus and help them feel safer. Acting calmly and consistently in these situations will make a significant difference in your dog’s confidence and ability to cope. Want more insights into recognising and managing your dog’s behaviour? Explore our blog for practical tips and advice.

Transform challenging moments into opportunities for growth with these strategies:

• Use positive reinforcement: Treats, toys, or praise work wonders to reward calm behaviour.
• Start slow: Choose quieter times and places for walks to build confidence gradually.
• Redirect and refocus: If your dog becomes reactive, lead them away calmly while keeping their attention on a treat or toy. Practice this in low-stress environments first to build their confidence and make it second nature during challenging situations.
• Recognise calm moments: Reward your dog when they remain composed, reinforcing positive behaviours.
• Practice focus games: Teach your dog to focus on you in high-stimulation environments by using simple commands like ‘look at me’ paired with treats or a toy.

For additional guidance, explore the Tackling Reactivity Online Dog Training Course. This expert-led course provides step-by-step strategies to manage your dog’s triggers, build their confidence, and help you both enjoy a more relaxed, harmonious life together.

Wondering how to manage reactive behaviours or improve your dog’s confidence? These FAQs provide clear answers and expert advice to help you take the next step in supporting your dog.