“Reactivity” is a general term which means your dog overreacts to a stimulus in the environment. The most common things a dog may react to include other dogs, people, children, bikes, etc. These are generally called “triggers” by dog trainers.
Dogs can be reactive for many different reasons, and it’s important that you have a qualified dog trainer or behaviourist help you identify why your dog reacts in order to overcome this issue with training. Dogs always react for a reason; they are not simply “naughty” or trying to pick a fight because they are disobedient. The most common reasons for reactivity include anxiety, frustration, underlying pain/health issues, and previous trauma.
Some dogs also react because the behaviour has become “learned.” This is when there was an underlying cause previously, and the dog, through repetition, has learned that reacting is an effective way to achieve their goal. For example, your dog reacts every time someone passes by their window; the person continues walking by, and the dog thinks their behaviour has been successful – the person has gone! Well done me!
The most important thing with reactivity is to contact a qualified trainer as soon as it starts. It can be easy to get on top of if caught quickly but becomes harder to rectify if left to become a habit.
One of the most common types of reactivity that owners struggle with is “on lead” reactivity. Being constrained by a lead can exacerbate reactivity.
This does not mean that your reactive dog should not be on lead. Leads are crucial for safety, especially if you have a dog that is reactive. Talk to your local qualified trainer who can help you learn lead handling skills and training techniques to help your dog cope.
So, your dog is reactive on lead. What do you do now?
One of the most common reasons for reactivity at home is in response to signals that there may be someone passing or entering the dog’s safe space. This could be the doorbell going for deliveries, when they hear the neighbour’s dog bark, or when they see children pass the front window.
If you are seeing aggression from your dog within the home, towards yourself, other family members, guests, or children, it’s crucial you seek help from a qualified trainer or behaviourist as soon as possible as this can develop into a very dangerous situation.
A good trainer will aim to change the association with their triggers to something more positive. For example, a dog can be taught that the doorbell means go to their bed or crate, rather than run at the front door and bark.
This can take time but is very achievable with the right training.
Beagle Welfare was formed in 1979 to give help and advice on beagles and to rehome those whose owners cannot keep them.
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