Understanding Dog Reactivity: Why Dogs React and How to Help.

By Celeste Goodhope

If you’re walking your dog and they suddenly bark, growl, lunge, or whine at another dog, person, or object, you might be dealing with dog reactivity. It can be frustrating, confusing, and even embarrassing — but you're not alone.

As a certified dog trainer in Cranbrook, BC, I work with many dogs who struggle with reactivity. The good news? With the right understanding and approach, reactive behavior can be managed and improved.

What Is Dog Reactivity?

Dog reactivity is an overreaction to a trigger — like another dog, a stranger, a bicycle, or a loud noise. This reaction often includes barking, lunging, growling, or intense staring. Reactivity can happen on or off-leash, though it's most common during leash walks.

While it might look like aggression, reactivity is often based in fear, frustration, or lack of social skills, not dominance or meanness.

Common Causes of Reactivity in Dogs

Understanding the root cause of your dog’s behavior is key to helping them.

1. Fear or Anxiety

Many dogs react because they feel unsafe. Barking and lunging become a way to keep scary things away.

2. Frustration or Barrier Frustration

Some dogs want to greet others, but the leash or fence prevents them from doing so. The built-up frustration leads to reactive behavior.

3. Under-Socialization

Dogs that haven’t had enough positive exposure to people, dogs, and environments during their critical development stages may struggle to cope later in life.

4. Past Trauma or Negative Experiences

A single bad experience — such as being attacked by another dog — can create a long-lasting fear response.

Signs Your Dog May Be Reactive

• Barking or growling at dogs or people while on walks

• Lunging or pulling hard on the leash

• Sudden stiffening or freezing when a trigger appears

• Whining or pacing in the presence of other dogs

• Difficulty calming down after an encounter

How to Help a Reactive Dog

1. Work with a Certified Dog Trainer

A professional who specializes in reactive dog training (like myself!) can assess your dog’s behavior and create a tailored training plan.

2. Use Positive Reinforcement

Reward calm behavior and create safe distances from triggers. Never punish reactive responses — it can increase fear and worsen the problem.

3. Manage the Environment

Use tools like no-pull harnesses, treat pouches, and quiet walking routes. Keep distance from triggers and avoid crowded dog parks.

4. Desensitization and Counter-Conditioning

Gradually expose your dog to their triggers in a controlled way, pairing those experiences with rewards. This rewires your dog’s emotional response.

5. Advocate for Your Dog

If someone wants to approach your dog or let their dog say hello, it’s okay to say no. Your job is to keep your dog safe and comfortable.

Can Reactive Dogs Get Better?

Yes, with time, consistency, and the right training methods, reactive dogs can learn to feel safer and behave more calmly. Every small step forward is a win.

Need Help with a Reactive Dog in Cranbrook, BC?

If you’re searching for a Cranbrook Dog Trainer to help with dog reactivity, I’m here to help. I offer customized one-on-one training that focuses on understanding your dog’s emotions and building trust through kindness and clear communication.

➡️ Visit www.mileysmom.com

📞 Call Celeste Goodhope at 250-688-5392

🐾 Let’s bring peace back to your walks — one step at a time.

Cranbrook Dog Trainer