Cambria Ungaro

⚠️REACTIVE DOG TRAINING⚠️

DISTANCE is your greatest training tool when trying to reduce your dog’s reactivity. You want to get close enough that they see a trigger but not close enough that they have a reaction. Close enough to see is UNDER threshold - reacting is OVER threshold.

Make sure to prepare by spending time training reliable cues to get your dogs attention and to manage them in the environment. I use focus, kissy/clicking noises, stay with release word, turn, call dog’s name, find it, and stop.

Make sure to always bring treats with you! Higher value treats like hot dogs or chicken may be needed in distracting or chaotic environments. If your dog is not taking food, make more distance!

Go at your dog’s individual pace. Your dog’s behavior is DATA about what you should be doing. Remember - a dog experiencing reactivity is having a hard time. It’s our job to help them get comfortable. Avoid close encounters with triggers that may set your dog off.

Avoid tools like pinch collars and e-collars. These tools may stop the behavior in the moment but can add to a dog’s stress response over time further strengthening their emotional response to triggers. A dog may associate the pain or discomfort from these tools with the trigger. Instead, reach out to a QUALIFIED trainer to help you form a counter-conditioning plan.

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