Reactivity is an area close to my heart. It is an area of training that is often misunderstood the most. But it is also one of my favourite training areas as it can take us on an incredible journey. 

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I have shared my life with a number of dogs that would be labelled as 'reactive' all for very different reasons. It is why I got into the world of dog training. My Springer Spaniel Indi was highly fear-reactive and aggressive to other dogs and strangers. At the time I struggled to find anyone who could help me using only force-free and reward-based training. I did try aversive techniques initially because at the time I knew no better and there were far less reward-based trainers around. This took me on a journey of learning all I could regarding dog behaviour and training to help Indi, but also to help other dogs. And once I started on that journey... I never looked back!

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Since then I have also had Kez who was an intense Australian Kelpie cross. She was also 'reactive' but in a completely different way to Indi. This is why I try to avoid labels because every 'reactive' dog is completely different. Kez was very anxious of other dogs and people when I rehomed her at 18 months old. She would bolt if she even heard or saw what she thought was another dog; before I would have a chance to blink she would be gone. We had some scary moments in the early days. I spent a long time learning about her and she was an incredible dog. Her ability to learn and her optimism was like no other dog I've ever met. 

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Despite her fears, any training in a new context completely changed how she felt about dogs and people. She was still anxious in places where she was previously triggered, but any new context that was associated with a positive experience she was like a different dog. As her bank of positive experiences and places grew her reactivity became non-existent. In the end, I could take her absolutely anywhere and she was even a stooge dog for other reactive dogs in her final 2 years of life. This same dog got to championship level in agility... the same dog that would bolt even on hearing another dog was able to compete at Crufts... oh and she won too! 3 years in a row. 

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The way I approach reactivity cases is by remembering that any dog labelled as 'reactive' is completely unique. I will always work with the dog in front of me... which will also often change on a day-to-day basis. Reactivity cases are not a one-session problem solved situation. It is a journey of learning about that individual dog, identifying the underlying emotions and triggers and then helping the dog to feel safe. A dog that feels safe and relaxed will then not feel the need to react. I have many reactivity clients that I see on a weekly/ fortnightly basis where we gradually build on the training, changing it as we go and learn more. 

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These are some of my favourite journeys to be a part of. Watching the progress, seeing the confidence grow in the dog and their caregiver... it is special. A number of clients that I have had the pleasure of assisting on this journey are now good friends. 

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If you would like to start your journey with me please do get in touch. 

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