A Positive Guide to Training Your Reactive Dog (PDF Printable)

This positive, fear-free guide equips you with proven strategies to transform your reactive dog's behavior into calm, happy interactions.

What’s Inside (2 pages)

• Understanding Reactivity: Learn what reactivity is, its common causes, and the crucial "threshold concept" for effective training.
• Preparation & Safety First: Discover essential equipment and a crucial safety protocol emphasizing positive reinforcement over punishment.
• Core Training Exercises: Step-by-step instructions for Counter-Conditioning, the "Look at That" (LAT) game, and the Emergency U-Turn for real-world scenarios.
• Monitoring Progress & Adjustments: Become an expert in your dog's body language and utilize a detailed training journal template to track improvements.
• Emergency & Proactive Planning: Implement effective management strategies and know when to seek professional help from certified trainers or behaviorists.

Who It’s For

This guide is for pet parents struggling with their dog's reactive behaviors such as barking, lunging, or growling towards triggers like other dogs, people, or objects. It's ideal for those seeking positive, humane, and effective training methods to build confidence and reduce stress for both themselves and their beloved canine companion.

How to Use It

1. Understand the Basics: Begin by grasping the concepts of reactivity and the "threshold" to ensure all training is done in a calm, effective state.
2. Equip & Prioritize Safety: Gather the recommended gear and always remember the crucial safety protocol: never punish reactive behaviors.
3. Practice Core Exercises: Systematically implement Counter-Conditioning, the LAT game, and the Emergency U-Turn, working consistently under your dog's threshold.
4. Observe & Track: Sharpen your observation skills by learning your dog's body language and diligently use the provided training log to monitor progress and adjust as needed.
5. Plan & Seek Support: Utilize management strategies for everyday situations and don't hesitate to consult certified professionals if you encounter challenges or need advanced guidance.

Creative Ways to Use

• Print out the guide and carry it during walks for quick reference to training techniques and body language cues.
• Share specific exercises or safety protocols with family members or dog walkers to ensure consistency in your dog's training.
• Utilize the "Training Log Template" not just for reactivity, but for tracking progress on any new skill you're teaching your dog.
• Turn the "Emergency U-Turn" into a fun, regular game during your walks to build a strong recall and engagement.
• Create flashcards with the body language signals to help everyone in the household quickly identify when your dog needs more space.

Benefits & Outcomes

• Successfully transform your dog's fearful or frustrated reactions into calm, neutral, or even positive responses.
• Develop a deeper understanding of your dog's needs and build a stronger, more trusting bond.
• Gain confidence and reduce stress during walks and public outings with your dog.
• Learn to proactively manage challenging situations, preventing over-threshold reactions.
• Equip yourself with humane, science-backed positive reinforcement training techniques.
• See measurable progress in your dog's behavior through consistent application of the strategies.

Technical Details:
File format: PDF
Page count: 2
Delivery: instant download
Lifetime access included

Download now and tag @cutie.dog in your success stories!