#Dog reactivity chart how to

How To Train A Reactive Dog In 7 Simple Steps It’s important to note that not all dogs will show the same signs and some may only exhibit a few while others will show many. So if you know your dog is friendly and playful but acts like a crazy dog in certain settings, they’re likely a reactive dog. He would just bark and lung out of excitement since he wanted to play. I knew it wasn’t aggression because his interactions with other dogs and people was always extremely friendly. He would lung, bark, and snap towards other dogs. These are just a few of the signs your dog may be exhibiting if they’re being reactive. Here are a few signs that can indicate your dog is being reactive: That being said, there are still some similarities between the two. In order to determine if your dog is reactive you’ll need to look for certain signs and behavioral cues.Īs mentioned, reactivity is different from being aggressive. How Can You Tell Your Dog Is Being Reactive? Without an outlet, this energy can build up and cause dog reactivity. This is because they have a lot of pent-up energy that needs to be released. High Energy Dogsĭogs that are high energy by nature are also more likely to be reactive. This could be anything from being attacked by another dog to being in a car accident. Traumaĭogs that have experienced some sort of trauma are also more likely to develop dog reactivity. In addition, some dog owner may unintentionally train their dogs to be MORE reactive. This is because they haven’t learned how to properly interact with other dogs and people. This is because they lack the nutrients necessary for a healthy nervous system which Improper Trainingĭogs that have not received proper training are also more likely to be reactive. Poor Nutritionĭogs that are not well-nourished are also more likely to develop dog reactivity. Breeds that are more likely to be reactive include herding dogs, terriers, and sighthounds. This is due to their genes and cannot be changed. Some dog breeds are simply more prone to dog reactivity than others. This is often due to the trauma they’ve experienced which can make them fearful of other dogs and people. Rescued Dogsĭogs that have been rescued from shelters or abusive homes are also more prone to dog reactivity. This is because they haven’t had the chance to learn how to interact with other dogs and people in a positive way. There are many different factors that can contribute to dog reactivity, including: Lack of Socializationĭogs that haven’t been properly socialized early on in life are more likely to develop dog reactivity. But what actually causes them to develop this reactivity towards things? What Causes A Dog To Be Reactive? Reactivity, on the other hand, is usually the result of fear, stress, or anxiety. It’s important to note that dog reactivity is not aggression.Īggression is a serious issue and is characterized by intentionally harmful behavior towards people or other animals. Reactive dog behavior can manifest itself in many different ways including barking, growling, lunging, snapping, and even biting. These triggers can be anything from other dogs, people, animals, objects, movement, and even sounds.

A dog reactivity chart to help identify your dogs mindsetĭog reactivity is defined as a dog that gets overly excited, stressed, or anxious in the presence of certain triggers.

7 steps you can take to train your reactive dog.What dog reactivity is and why it develops.The good news is calming a reactive dog can be done with a few simple strategies. In fact, 1 out of 3 dogs have an issue with reactivity. Your perfect walk has now turned into a nightmare.ĭog reactivity isn’t uncommon. Things only get worse as they begin to bark, start trying to lung, and totally lose control. You can tell something’s off.Īs the dog gets closer your dog begins to growl and tense up. You look down at the end of the leash and your pup has stopped moving and is staring intensely at another dog down the street. It’s a beautiful summer day, clear skies, birds singing, and a delicious coffee in your hand. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.