Reactivity is troubling to fix for many dog owners. If not addressed promptly, it can turn daily walks that were supposed to be calming and enjoyable into something that induces stress. It can even make you feel embarrassed with a dog that constantly barks, lunges, whines, or finds other ways to act out.
Luckily, our article is here to provide insights into addressing reactivity in dogs. Read on to learn how to train a reactive dog.
Is It Even Possible to Train a Reactive Dog?
While fixing reactivity may seem impossible with all the excessive reactions, know that it is beyond possible to train a reactive dog. It may take some time and effort as a dog owner, but you can certainly address reactivity. Accomplishing this is simply a matter of teaching them to react appropriately to any given stimuli.
Additionally, note that reactivity isn’t the same as aggression. Although higher levels of reactivity can lead to some aggression in dogs if not managed, reactivity is more about your dog not being able to give a calm response to stimuli, whether it is other dogs, people, or specific objects.
How to Train a Reactive Dog With Group Classes
Group classes are an excellent way to fix reactivity in dogs, or at least reduce it to a more manageable level. However, not all group classes are suitable for reactive dogs. When training a reactive dog, sign up for group classes that are designed specifically for reactive dogs.
If these classes aren’t available to you, look for small group classes with fewer dogs to better manage your dog. You may also look for group classes in a controlled environment where dogs are spaced out from each other if your dog’s reactivity is severe.
Dog trainers leading these classes position reactive dogs at a distance and let them observe each other calmly. Once a dog feels more comfortable, they reward good behavior when interacting appropriately with other dogs or stimuli but never force interactions.
Group dog walks can also be helpful in teaching your dog to react appropriately. Since they will walk with other dogs present, they will slowly learn to react calmly and start ignoring the presence of other dogs. However, you should plan group dog walks very carefully to ensure that everyone gets along nicely. Start by walking your dog with other dogs about five feet apart while keeping your dog’s attention on yourself, and gradually decrease the distance.
How to Train a Reactive Dog Following Positive Reinforcement Training
Perhaps the most effective way to train a reactive dog is by reinforcing good behaviors. Every time your dog reacts appropriately to stimuli, reward them quickly to help them build positive associations. For instance, if your dog starts barking at other dogs the moment they see them, reward them immediately when they keep it quiet.
When your dog no longer becomes reactive when they see the stimuli, slowly begin controlled interactions and reward them for every good behavior. Over time, they will build enough confidence to respond to the stimuli that were once triggering them and behave nicely.
Professional Training for a Reactive Dog
The above summarizes how you can train a reactive dog but there may be dog owners who might need to contact a professional dog trainer. If your dog’s reactivity is severe and leads to aggression, consider contacting a professional dog trainer. They can help address reactivity and give you tailored advice on managing your dog’s reactivity.
Cost of Training a Reactive Dog
While professional dog training may be needed for many reactive dog owners, it also comes with a cost. Typically, reactive dog training doesn’t cost a high amount. A dog trainer will need to come in for regular sessions and help your reactive dog respond to stimuli calmly.
Depending on your dog’s age, breed, and individual trainability, as well as how reactive they are, it may take a few sessions to more than ten sessions.
When estimating the costs, make sure to factor in your location. For instance, Springfield dog trainers in Massachusetts will be much more cost-effective compared to dog trainers in Boston. With all this in mind, professional training for a reactive dog can cost a few hundred dollars to a thousand dollars – and potentially more if your dog has severe reactivity.
Training a Reactive Dog to Become a Confident Pup
Now that you know how to train a reactive dog, note that this process isn’t an easy one. Reactivity is one of the most challenging behavioral issues to fix in dogs that takes lots of time and practice to fix. By keeping training consistent and rewarding the behaviors that you want to see from your dog, you can help your reactive dog become a confident pup that responds appropriately to everything in their daily life.
