Lead Reactivity:

Understanding your dog’s specific triggers and the emotions behind their reactivity is the first step toward helping them feel more at ease.

Tips to Manage Lead Reactivity

While there’s no “one size fits all” solution for lead reactivity, these tips can go a long way in calming your walks:

1. Stay Calm and Centered

Your dog looks to you for cues about how to react to their environment. If you feel tense or frustrated, your dog will pick up on it, which could escalate their reaction. Practice staying calm and confident during walks, even taking deep breaths if needed to help your pup feel safe.

2. Use Positive Reinforcement

When your dog stays calm or looks to you during a walk, reward them with praise, treats, or their favourite toy. Positive reinforcement helps them associate calm behaviour with good outcomes, making it more likely they’ll repeat it in the future.

For example, if your dog notices another dog but doesn’t react, say “Good job!” and offer a small treat right away. Over time, your dog will learn that staying calm leads to rewards.

3. Create Distance from Triggers

Distance is a powerful tool. The closer your dog is to their trigger, the harder it will be for them to stay calm. If you see a potential trigger up ahead, like another dog or a fast moving skateboard, across the street or turn around to increase the space between you and the trigger.

When given enough distance, many dogs find it easier to stay in the “green zone” of calm behaviour. You can gradually decrease this distance as your dog becomes more comfortable over time.

4. Practice Focus

Teaching your dog to focus on you rather than their trigger can be life changing. Start practicing a “look at me” command in low stress environments, rewarding your dog for making eye contact with you. Once they’ve mastered it, use this skill during walks to redirect their attention away from triggers.

For example, when you see another dog in the distance, say “Look at me” in a cheerful tone. When your dog responds, reward them with a treat. This shifts their focus and helps them stay calm.

5. Work on Counterconditioning and Desensitisation

These techniques are all about changing your dog’s emotional response to triggers. Here's how you can use them:

• Counterconditioning: Pair the sight of a trigger with something your dog loves, like high value treats. For instance, if your dog reacts to bicycles, give them tiny pieces of chicken every time they see a bike from a safe distance.
• Desensitisation: Gradually expose your dog to their trigger at a level they can handle without reacting. Over time, decrease the distance or increase the exposure while keeping your dog comfortable.

Consistency and patience are key here. These techniques take practice, but they can significantly reduce reactivity over time.

6. Use the Right Gear

Investing in suitable walking gear can help you feel more in control and set your dog up for success. A no pull harness or front clip harness can provide better control and reduce strain during reactive moments. Avoid retractable leads, as they can be harder to manage in stressful situations.

7. Walk During Quiet Times

If busy streets or crowded parks tend to overwhelm your dog, try going for walks during quieter times of the day. Early mornings or less trafficked routes can make a big difference in ensuring a calmer experience for both of you.

8. Seek Professional Support

Sometimes lead reactivity can feel overwhelming to manage on your own, and that’s okay! A certified dog trainer or behaviourist who specialises in reactivity can provide personalised advice, show you practical techniques, and offer guidance tailored to your dog’s needs.

9. Keep Walks Short and Sweet

If your dog struggles on long walks, try keeping them shorter and more manageable. Even a 10 minute walk can be a win if it’s calm and positive!