What reactivity looks like. Reactivity presents in many different ways. You may see behaviors such as lunging, barking, growling, snarling, loud vocalizing, and sometimes even biting. These are strong emotional responses to triggers in the environment.
Why are dogs reactive? Not all reactivity is created equal. Some dogs react out of fear, anxiety, hyper-arousal, frustration, or lack confidence and use reactivity as a defense mechanism. While others, react based on frustration or overexcitement. We'll work together to figure out why the reactivity is happening and address the underlying cause. This will ensure long-term success. Remember, your dog is not choosing to be bad, they are communicating that they are uncomfortable, overwhelmed, or overly eager.
Reactivity vs. excitement. Many young dogs lack impulse control and seek immediate gratification. Wanting to play when they see a person or another dog they may get frustrated and pull on the leash, lunge, and/or bark. This may look like true leash reactivity, and certainly could be a sign, but the primary factor is the emotion behind the reaction. Dogs with reactivity have negative emotions such as fear, anxiety, stress, and/or anger. Typically the reaction is a defense mechanism to get the scary trigger to move away. This is different than an over excited dog who want to play.
Every dog has individual needs. We will work together to determine the cause of your dogs reactivity and create a customized training plan specific to the type of reactivity your dog is experiencing. We will determine the WHY and work toward helping your dog change their emotional response to triggers in the environment. We’ll focus on building confidence, impulse control, and feeling safe. The goal is to not simply stop behaviors, but to help your dog genuinely feel better.
How long will it take? Every dog’s journey is different. Progress depends on many factors, including your dog’s history, environment, genetics, and the severity of their reactivity. Some dogs improve quickly, while others need more time and support. Lasting behavior change does not happen overnight, but with consistency, compassion, and the right guidance, meaningful improvement is possible.
Coaching
Coaching means we work together and I show you how to train your dog. This is a great option if you have the time to work with your dog's reactivity. Click option 1 to learn more about this program and pricing.
Homeschool training is a great option if you are busy and would like me to do the heavy lifting. Because not all reactivity is created equal homeschool training may not be the bet option for your dog. Click option 2 to see if your dog is a good fit for homeschool training and more about this program.
Homeschool
Board & Train
Would you love to have your trained while you are on vacation? Do you desire to have consistent, individualized training from a professional in a loving home environment where you get fast, reliable results? If you answered yes, then board & train is the right choice for you. Note this is not a good option if your dog is people or dog aggressive. If you still aren't sure schedule a board & train consultation to find out. Click option 3 to learn more about this program.
Consultation
Do you feel overwhelmed with making a training choice? Not sure where to start. Don't see what you need. Do you want to want to dive deep into your reactive dog's behaviors? No problem. A consultation is the right choice for you. Click option 4 to learn more about a consultation and pricing.
