Best Advice I've Read On Reactivity

[centrop67]

The trainer that first helped me work with Radar recently shared this article on Facebook, and I thought it might be helpful to some people here.

http://blog.smartanimaltraining.com/201 ... -treating/

Some of the information may not be new, but it can help set a baseline for those that are dealing with reactive dogs. It also paints a clear picture as to what the behavior is (and isn't).

I know some people don't like to click through links, so a couple of highlights:

"It doesn’t matter how assertive the dog may seem. At the core of the reaction, lies stress, anxiety or fear. Genetics, poor socialization, hormones, neurophysiological makeup as well as experience can all be factors leading to such emotions."

"At the first sign of reactivity, many guardians will try to interrupt and inhibit the behavior. Saying ‘no’, yelling at the dog, yanking the leash or even ‘alpha rolling’ are typical ways that guardians often use to ‘tame’ the wild beast at the end of their leash...Unfortunately, as we’ll see, this type of correction might stop the behavior in the moment, but the long-term effects can be devastating and actually increase the problem. "

There is also a very helpful and descriptive section on management and treatment.

"With careful and deliberate exposure to the trigger(s), most cases of reactivity or even aggression can be greatly reduced and often treated completely. Again, just like therapy in humans, there is no quick fix when dealing with an animal’s emotions."

[Raven]

Unfortunately, as we’ll see, this type of correction might stop the behavior in the moment, but the long-term effects can be devastating and actually increase the problem. "

Again, just like therapy in humans, there is no quick fix when dealing with an animal’s emotions."

"With careful and deliberate exposure to the trigger(s), most cases of reactivity or even aggression can be greatly reduced and often treated completely.

[MultiPurposeK9]

Thanks so much for posting the link. I find that sometimes although I try to drive it home with clients that they need to "pay" the dog what they want for giving you what you want is often forgotten when training sessions are over. Building big bank accounts with praise and rewards helps so much when they venture out into the real world.