Insights from 50 Years of Training
Dog reactivity is often misunderstood. After spending 50 years training dogs, I've seen countless misconceptions about what it truly means for a dog to be reactive. A real reactive dog is one that, regardless of how much you call him, offer treats, or try to divert his attention, remains fixated on the source of his reactivity. This is a far cry from the more common scenario where a dog reacts, then quickly redirects to the owner for a treat.
**What is True Reactivity? **
True reactivity in dogs is a complex issue that demands stronger training and structure. When a dog is genuinely reactive, no amount of calling or treating will immediately break their focus. The typical methods of calling the dog’s name or offering treats can sometimes exacerbate the problem. Instead of calming down, the dog learns that a brief reactive outburst results in a reward from the owner. This creates a cycle where the dog is conditioned to react, then look to the owner for a treat.
**Early Intervention and Prevention**
To prevent this cycle from developing, it's crucial to start training early. From the moment a puppy joins your home, you should establish clear boundaries and consistent training routines. The goal is to teach them that they don't need to react to every stimulus in their environment. They should learn to evaluate situations calmly and decide that there is no threat.
**Training Techniques for Reducing Reactivity**
Here are some key techniques to help manage and reduce dog reactivity, starting them as puppies or Young dogs
1. **Desensitization and Counter-Conditioning**: Gradually expose your dog to the stimuli that trigger their reactivity, starting from a distance where they can remain calm. Pair this exposure with positive experiences, like treats, Praise or play, but only when they are calm. Be accurate in the reward, for not being sharp on the timing can create the contrary effect where he assumes you are rewarding him on his reaction, if this does not work, you will have to utilize corrections that have a high value to retract him from the reactivity
2. **Structured Walks**: Maintain control during walks by using a leash and a proper collar. Keep your dog close to you and practice commands like "sit" and "heel" regularly. This reinforces their focus on you, rather than on potential triggers. But a Dog that is a true reactive dog and it has it ingrained; you have to be aware of utilizing the correct Corrections where he is understanding that the behavior is not acceptable
3. **Controlled Socialization**: Socialize your dog in controlled environments where you can manage their interactions. This helps them learn to cope with various stimuli without becoming reactive.
4. **Leadership and Confidence Building**: Dogs often react out of fear or insecurity. By establishing yourself as a calm and assertive leader, you can help build their confidence and reduce their need to react defensively.
5. **Consistent Routine**: Dogs thrive on routine. Consistent training sessions, feeding times, and exercise schedules help create a sense of security, making them less likely to react to unexpected stimuli.
**Understanding the Difference**
It’s essential to differentiate between a dog that has learned to look at the owner for a treat after reacting and a truly reactive dog. The former is simply a dog that has learned a pattern of behavior for rewards, while the latter needs more intensive and structured training to manage their reactions.
**Conclusion**
Reactivity in dogs is a nuanced issue that requires a deep understanding and a tailored approach to training. By starting early, maintaining consistency, and building a strong foundation of trust and leadership, you can help your dog become more confident and less reactive. Remember, true reactivity isn't about quick fixes but about building a stable, well-adjusted dog through dedicated training and management.
In my 50 years of experience, I've seen how the right approach can transform even the most reactive dogs into calm and confident companions. It's a journey that requires patience and dedication, but the results are profoundly rewarding for both the dog and the owner.
There are really great true experienced Professionals in the field with many years of experience and successful achievements we can name a few Professionals we recommend: ( Contact us for more information)
DSWK-Franco (Bebo) Santana- DSWK/TNk9
Ivan Balabanov Training Without Conflict
Yvan Granados Down Right Dog Training
Richard Bonilla -The Dog Training Clinic
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