Does your pup lunge on other dogs during your nightly walk with him? If yes, it may be challenging and stressful as you have to pull back to control your pup who makes a hassle there. But, if you train your pup with the right reactive dog training techniques, you can help them stay calm in these moments.
1. Identify the Trigger
To set off calming your reactive pup, you may identify what triggers them to behave so. In many cases, this could be another dog approaching. Since you can often see the trigger before your dog does, be alert to any other dogs in the area, especially if your pet tends to react aggressively or anxiously. Keeping an eye out gives you the chance to act before your dog becomes reactive.
2. Use Treats for Counter Conditioning
As soon as you spot another dog, begin counter-conditioning. This involves teaching your dog that good things happen when their trigger is nearby. Start by offering them a treat when the other dog approaches. This method creates a positive association, showing your dog that the presence of the other dog is not a threat but an opportunity for rewards. Ensure that the treat is given at a safe distance from the trigger, which helps your dog stay calm and focused.
3. Remove Your Dog from the Situation
After rewarding your dog, turn them away from the trigger and move in another direction. By taking them out of the line of sight of the other dog, you can help prevent further reactive behavior. Even if you don’t have treats handy, removing your dog from the stressful situation can help them settle down. When in doubt, a quick retreat can help your dog regain their composure.
Tips for Training a Reactive Dog
In addition to calming your dog during reactive moments, there are steps you can take to train your dog to behave better overall. Here are a few strategies to reduce reactivity in your dog over time:
Teach Your Dog to Look at You
Training your dog to make eye contact on command can be a powerful tool in reactive dog training. When you see another dog or person approaching, you can redirect your dog’s attention by asking them to look at you. To train this, hold out a treat and wait for your dog to make eye contact. When they do, say the command “look” and give them the treat. With consistent practice, your dog will learn to look at you whenever they hear the command. This redirection technique can help prevent a reactive outburst before it starts.
Practice the “Heel” Command
If your dog tends to bark or lunge at other dogs, mastering the “heel” command can help you regain control. This command trains your dog to walk calmly by your side, without you having to pull them back forcefully. By practicing this command during calm walks, your dog will be more likely to respond when a reactive situation arises. Having a solid “heel” in place is key to maintaining control and ensuring your walks are less stressful.
Work with Another Dog Parent
For safe exposure to other dogs, partner with a friend who has a calm, well-behaved dog. Arrange for them to walk their dog nearby while you practice rewarding your dog during these encounters. By keeping a safe distance, you can gradually desensitize your dog to the presence of other pets. This practice helps because your friend will understand the training process and won’t approach or engage with your dog if they starts barking.
Consult with the Experts
If you find that your efforts aren’t yielding the desired results, it may be time to work with a certified professional dog trainer. A professional can create a customized training plan to address your dog’s specific needs and help you both navigate reactive situations more effectively. In some cases, if behavioral training isn’t enough, consulting your vet about medications might be necessary to help your dog feel more at ease.
