Dealing With Reactive Dogs
I received this question from a pet parent dealing with dog reactivity, a common dog behavior. This is a tough situation for both dog and pet parent so this story inspired me to write detailed articles discussing tips on living with reactive dogs. Changing behavior is difficult, but it can be done!
Q: What should I do with my reactive dog?
I have a one-and-a-half-year-old male Red Heeler named Rocky. He was fine with people and other dogs I owned when I was living on five acres. I moved to a smaller house and he was still fine with my own dogs at home and with people inside his house (he is a big baby, but can get nervous sometimes). However, whenever I take him outside for a walk, he starts to bark, growl and be just really aggressive toward other dogs and sometimes even people. Now, he’s starting to pull at kids on bikes and he is really protective of me. Sometimes, he won’t even let people come near me. I really want to be able to take him someplace without the fear of him attacking someone. He is young and I am trying to train him myself by looking up information on YouTube and Google, but nothing seems to be working that well.
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A: Consult animal experts and read up.
You’ve taken the first step, and that’s searching for answers for sweet Rocky. Good for you! As a dog trainer, it’s extremely difficult to pinpoint exactly what causes Rocky to react without meeting him in person. So I’ll make a few broad suggestions here. I hope these help.
My first suggestion is investing in an expert dog trainer partnered with a veterinary behaviorist. While it seems expensive, you’ll likely have a quicker and better outcome, meaning Rocky will respond quicker. I know this isn’t your first choice, but I want to put this out there. It’s worth every penny.
If you’re interested in learning techniques to help Rocky, I highly recommend reading a few books. You can order them online or find them at your local library. Check out their websites for videos and additional details. These books even offer a list of BAT-certified dog trainers in your area too.
- “Behavior Adjustment Training (BAT): For Fear, Frustration and Aggression in Dogs” by Grisha Stewart
- “Control Unleashed” by Leslie McDevitt
Lastly, dealing with fear can take some time. I highly recommend keeping Rocky away from triggers so he doesn’t practice his reactive behavior. I recommend walking Rocky in the evenings when it’s dark so he can’t easily see other dogs and people. Now, I’m not sure if Rocky is protecting you or himself. It could be both. Until you’re able to control situations, which you’ll learn by reading both books front to back, I would keep people and dogs away. Again, the more he practices reactive behavior, the worse it becomes–that I can guarantee.
Hugs to Rocky!
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