What can you do if another dog is approaching your reactive dog?

Owning a reactive dog can be challenging, especially when encountering other dogs during walks. Reactive dogs may bark, lunge, or show signs of distress when they see another dog approaching. While these behaviours can be stressful, they are also opportunities for training and deepening your bond with your dog. In this blog post, we’ll explore practical steps to help manage your dog's reactivity and turn these moments into positive learning experiences.

Understanding Reactivity in Dogs

Before diving into the strategies, it’s essential to understand what reactivity means. Reactivity is not aggression, although it can sometimes look like it. A reactive dog may bark, lunge, growl, or display other intense behaviours in response to certain stimuli, such as other dogs, people, or even loud noises. This response is usually driven by fear, anxiety, or frustration rather than a desire to attack.

Key Strategies to Manage Reactivity

1. Stay Calm and Focused

Your dog takes cues from your emotions. If you tense up or panic when another dog approaches, your dog is likely to do the same. Practice deep breathing and stay relaxed, keeping your posture open and your movements smooth. This calmness can help your dog feel more secure and less likely to react.

2. Increase Distance

One of the simplest and most effective strategies is to increase the distance between your dog and the approaching dog. Cross the street, turn down a different path, or step aside to give your dog more space. The further away the trigger, the less intense your dog’s reaction is likely to be.

3. Reduce Eye Contact With the Other Dog

Scatter feeding high-value treats on the ground, a favourite toy, or engaging in a game can redirect your dog’s focus from the approaching dog to you.

4. Work with a Professional

If your dog’s reactivity is severe, consider working with a professional dog trainer or a behaviourist who specialises in reactive dogs. They can provide personalised strategies and support to help manage your dog’s behaviour effectively.

Long-Term Management and Patience

Managing a reactive dog requires time, patience, and consistency. Progress may be slow, and setbacks can happen, but with perseverance, you can help your dog become more comfortable around other dogs. Celebrate small victories, like a moment of calmness or a successful redirection, and continue building on these positive experiences.

Conclusion

Helping a reactive dog when another dog is approaching is a journey that requires understanding, patience, and the right strategies. Remember, every dog is different, and what works for one may not work for another, so be flexible and responsive to your dog’s needs. With time and dedication, you can transform your reactive dog into a confident and happy companion.

Here is a handy leaflet with more strategies you might find helpful