Reactivity Isn’t Bad Behavior — It’s Big Feelings

“Reactivity” is one of the biggest buzzwords in the dog world right now, but the

tricky part is that everyone pictures something different when they hear it.

Some imagine barking and lunging; others may picture exuberantly pulling

while trying to say hello to a fellow dog or their person; still others might see it

as the dog freezing or planting themselves, not wanting to move. I like to think of

reactivity as a dog simply having some big feelings. Excitement, frustration,

fear, anxiety, overwhelming emotions that are louder than a dog’s coping skills

in that moment. Your dog’s not giving you a hard time; they are having a hard

time, and there are things that we can do to support our dogs with their

feelings while learning to navigate the crazy world that we live in.

Here is how you can help your dog navigate the world with confidence:

1. Distance

Distance is the number one thing we can provide to help our dogs. It lowers the pressure, creates "breathing room,” and gives your dog some space for interest to replace panic.

• The Goal: for your dog to be in the presence of stimuli without feeling

  the pressure to react.

  
  

• The How: Find the distance that works for your dog; they should be

  relaxed with a soft body. They should be interested in what's happening,

  but not hyper-focused on what's happening. If your dog is hyper-

  focused…add distance.
  

2. Create a "Safe Space" at Home to Manage Reactivity Sensitive dogs thrive on predictability. You can lower their daily "adrenaline" by:

• Using white noise to drown out startling street sounds.

• Offering calming, enriching activities.

• Moving mindfully and avoiding sudden, loud movements that might

  startle a hyper-vigilant pup.

• Keeping routines consistent so your dog knows what to expect.

• Use barricades or window covers to limit constant visual exposure to

  outside stimuli.

• Having a sign on your door that reads "Please don’t knock or ring the

  bell, we have a dog in training”… can limit the number of times that your

  dog gets startled by someone being at the door.

3. Watch Your Patterns

Dogs are masters of pattern recognition, which means we have to be mindful of predictors — including the leash. If the leash tightens every time a trigger appears, leash pressure itself becomes a warning sign. If management tools only show up when something scary is coming, those tools become predictors. Try to keep your movements gentle and practice your management tools randomly at times when there are no triggers around.

4. Let Them Sniff

Sniffing is a dog’s version of a deep breath.

Sniffing is a natural calming behavior for your dog. Go to the park or a parking lot, pick a distance from the stimuli that is comfortable for your dog, and sprinkle some yummy treats into the grass. If your dog isn’t interested in sniffing all the treats up, you are likely too close to the stimuli…move away and try again.

5. Recovery Over Perfection

Surprises happen! If your dog hits their limit and has a meltdown:

• Get out of there: Your first job is to create distance immediately.

• Reset: Let them sniff or sit in the grass to decompress.

• Know when to call it: It is okay to cut a walk short. Once a dog "boils over," they need time for their nervous system to reset.

  
  

6. Environmental Management is Key Here are a few management tips: Covering windows, using barricades to prevent access to windows and doors, and hanging a sign to let people know that you have a dog in training, so please don't knock or ring the bell, can all help your dog avoid multiple disruptions and/or reactions throughout the day. This will lead to a calm, predictable environment and will help your dog learn to relax.

Covering windows or using "Dog in Training" signs isn't a failure—it’s protection.

The Bottom Line: Your dog isn't trying to be difficult; they are just trying to feel safe. With patience, routine, and plenty of distance, you’re helping them find their footing. 🐾

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~ Jill Kudera

CPDT-KA Certified Professional Dog Trainer

Licensed and Insured

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Canine and Feline CPR and First Aid Certified