Reducing reactivity to dogs
Take your pup to a location where you will see dogs but can keep a good distance from them. Keep a distance from other dogs that does not make your pup bark, lunge or stare intently at the dog in such a way that they cannot look at you when you say their name. Allow them to look at the dog, then say their name, when they look at you, say “Good!” and give them a high value treat (something they really love). If they begin to offer eye contact voluntarily when they see a dog, say “Good” and give them a treat when they do. Try to avoid putting your pup in situations where they react to other dogs by keeping a distance from them when you see one coming.
- Your dog sees the other dog
- Let them watch the dog for 1-2 seconds
- You say their name
- They look at you
- You give them a treat