
It is easy to be worried when your dog is reactive. A dog that is reactive is a dog that overreacts to certain things or situations. For instance, the trigger can be a child. If you are walking your dog and she sees a child in the distance and starts to lunge and snap it is a horrifying experience. Your dog is clearly upset, you are now upset and most likely even if the child is a distance away the child and parents are now worried too. Your dog is trying to make sure the scary thing or trigger stays far away from her. Often, a cycle develops where now the dog parent will anticipate this reactivity and be nervous and actually trigger the dog before the dog may even notice the child. How stressful!
I have a reactive dog. I know what it is like first hand. Through all my years of training, teaching, studying and being taught, the most important thing I can tell anyone is reactivity does not define your dog. While on your journey to help your dog with their fears you may need to change a few things but at the core you are simply embracing your dog and their fears and understanding who they are. Building confidence and trust with your dog is key to all other things.
Try to focus on the other great qualities and behaviours.
My dog loves to sleep on my feet My dog loves to play fetch with me When I smell my dog my stressful day melts away My dog has a dorky smile My dog does the best spin ever My dog sleeps with me when I am sick My dog loves to walk with me
I bet your list of awesome behaviours goes on and on. Reactivity is one part of your dog. It does not define your dog. Remembering this can help you relax and focusing on the positive helps you and your dog build confidence and trust.
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