Dog Reactivity

by The K9 Guy, on 12-18-20

Today I stumbled upon a YouTube video titled "How to stop Dog Aggression quickly And easily - In a few steps." Wow! Now that's something to look at!

The problem dog in this video is displaying what I (and many trainers) refer to as "reactivity". I would define reactivity as a dog that "reacts" to something (person, dog, things, etc.) in a problematic way - lunging, barking, pulling, growling, etc. While this behavior can appear aggressive, it's not always driven by energies where the dog intends harm (my definition of aggression). But I digress...

I wanted to share this video because it does an excellent job of documenting two important items owners need to be using when helping any reactive dog - SPACE and MOTION. Whether you found this page looking for help with your dog, or whether you're a client who was directed here, please watch the video while concentrating on how this trainer and owner are using SPACE and MOTION (very well) to help the dog.

AFTERWARD, PLEASE READ ON for further thoughts.

So if you're still reading, there are a few additional things to discuss. First, while I've always found SPACE and MOTION useful with reactive dogs, there are probably at least a dozen other items that can be helpful. While the video is great in covering those two foundation items, I would offer those items alone probably won't offer a complete solution for most dogs. So if you have a reactive dog, and use of SPACE and MOTION aren't helping, don't give up! There may be other things necessary to help YOUR dog!

Second, I often tell owners "every dog/video/trainer is perfect online". This video shows a dog with a behavioral problem being helped in short order - wonderful. But there are many varied levels of reactivity or energy in dogs. In the video (at 1 min 50 secs) the trainer proclaims the dog's energy is an "8 out of 10". Really? Because I would rate it a "2 out of 10". So while the video helpfully covers important concepts, it's using a mildly reactive dog, around a few calm dogs, in a large open field. It's always important to see the big picture!

Finally, working with dogs (living creatures) is not the same as fixing a broken toaster oven. I believe behavior is best viewed on a continuum. You should be working to help your dog move in a better direction, not seeking an instant "FIX" for behavior. Focus on helping your dog to be better each week! Don't get frustrated if something isn't "fixed" on some arbitrary timeline.

If you're local and needing help with a reactive dog, other problem behavior(s), or simply training - feel free to call! Have a great dog day!