Leash Manners, Reactivity, and Leadership Dog Walking

I ran across a recent dog advice article (newspaper) regarding dogs that are generally well behaved, but become crazy on walks when other dogs are nearby. The article was rather lengthy and offered theories on why some dogs behave in this manner, a behavior I and many other trainers classify as 'reactivity'. The author in the news article suggested this behavior was fear based, and the result of some prior bad experience somewhere in the past of these dogs.

Dogs that behave poorly around other dogs, most commonly on walks, are dogs I see several times weekly. This is a very common problem which in my experience can have several causes - anxiety from a prior bad experience being the least common. Because the reactive behavior can look similar regardless of divergent causes, and because of the abundance of online diagnoses being offered, I'm certain many owners become thoroughly confused when researching this problem. It would be my suggestion to seek the help of a professional that deals with this regularly, vs relying on a website that cannot evaluate your dog.

At every initial visit I spend time helping owners walk their dog(s) properly. Walking should be a leadership exercise that builds communication with a pet, and teaches focus and calming. Aside from reactivity, dogs that pull or lead are not focused on their owners! And dogs that walk poorly typically have a host of other problem behaviors, and little or no understanding of commands or obedience. Working with a trainer can help get your dog walking properly, and make those walks more pleasurable, calming, and healthy!

Well behaved and trained dogs can go more places and enjoy more activities with their owners. All because their owners know they can trust their dog(s) to listen and behave properly in diverse situations and settings. Training takes time, work, and a plan. But every plan requires an initial first step. Today is an excellent time to start helping your dog earn a more privileged life.