Expert dog trainer emphasizes the importance of daily routines and structure at home for raising a calm, obedient dog. Build a strong foundation for training and behavior.
Create space for reactive dogs to reduce fear and anxiety. Find a comfortable distance, move away from triggers, and provide enough space for them to calm down and regain focus.
Effective dog training involves both management and training. Unwanted behaviors can be reduced by preventing reinforcement and providing consistent training for desired behaviors.
Rewarding calm and focused behavior is key in managing reactivity. Offer treats to keep your dog's attention on you and reinforce calmness. Redirect their focus if they become reactive and reward their attention on you.
Counter conditioning aims to change the dog's negative association with triggers by using positive experiences. Find a comfortable distance, engage the dog in a favorite activity, and create positive associations.
Prevention is key. Avoid known triggers, plan walks during quieter times, and choose routes with escape options to keep your reactive dog calm.
Understanding canine communication is vital for your dog's calmness. Dogs communicate non-verbally, and learning their signals helps create a relaxed environment.
Provide secure equipment for your dog's comfort and your peace of mind. Use a long line for walks and a spacious crate at home if needed.
Choose routes without negative experiences for your reactive dog. Anticipation can raise stress levels. Be mindful of triggers to keep your dog calm.