Why Is My Dog Reactive?

If you are struggling with a Reactive Dog, we understand your frustration.

Having a reactive dog can be incredibly embarrassing and frustrating. You may feel like you've tried everything, yet no matter what you do, your dog just wants to attack everything in sight. Walking your dog becomes a dreaded activity, and social outings can turn into stressful ordeals. The embarrassment of your dog's outbursts, coupled with the frustration of not being able to control them, can leave you feeling helpless and isolated.

Dog reactivity is a common issue that many dog owners face, but understanding the root cause can be the first step towards addressing it. If your dog is reactive, you might notice behaviours such as barking, lunging, or growling at other dogs, people, or even moving objects like bicycles and cars. But why does this happen?

Understanding Dog Reactivity

Fear and Anxiety: One of the primary reasons for dog reactivity is fear. Many dogs are not aggressive but instead fearful. Their reactivity stems from a need to protect themselves from perceived threats. This fear-based reactivity often manifests as aggression because the dog believes that offensive behaviour will make the threat go away.

Lack of Socialisation:

Dogs that have not been properly socialised may react negatively to new experiences, people, or other animals. Early socialisation helps dogs learn how to interact appropriately with their environment.

Negative Experiences:

Dogs that have had traumatic experiences may develop reactive behaviours as a defence mechanism. For instance, a dog that was attacked by another dog might react aggressively to any dog it sees thereafter.

Genetic Predisposition:

Some breeds or individual dogs are more predisposed to reactive behaviours due to their genetics. This doesn't mean the behaviour cannot be managed, but it does mean extra patience and training might be required.

Protective Instincts:

Dogs have a natural instinct to protect their territory and their owners. This can sometimes lead to reactive behaviour if the dog perceives a threat to its home or family.

At Well Behaved Woofs, we feel your pain and want you to know that you're not alone. Many dog owners face the same challenges, and it's important to understand that there are reasons behind your dog's behaviour.

We are here to explain why dogs become reactive and provide you with the tools and support needed to manage and improve their behaviour.

We offer tailored training programs designed to build your dog's resilience and help them cope with their triggers.

By using kind and positive reinforcement techniques, we aim to reduce your dog's fear and anxiety, ultimately leading to a calmer, more confident pet. With our guidance and your commitment, we believe that you can transform your dog's behaviour and enjoy a more harmonious relationship.

Don't give up hope. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you and your reactive dog. Together, we can make a difference.

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