Dog Reactivity: What Are The Signs?
In recent years, post pandemic dog training has seen the rise in dog reactivity more than ever - but what signs should you look out for as an owner that may indicate reactivity?
Dog reactivity is a complex but common subject.
My experience has been that it exists as a spectrum, with different triggers and can’t always be defined as being an outcome of either nature or nurture. In other words, some breeds of dog may be genetically predisposed to anxiety and even aggression. Other dogs experiences in their early years or even traumatic incidents as an older dog can be the catalyst for displaying reactive behaviour.
There are dogs whose reactivity exists through the frustration of being unable to greet another dog, to the other end of the spectrum where the dog is completely fearful, or, aggressive.
Dog reactivity usually has a specific trigger, commonly these can be any of, or a combination of, the below;
Other dogs
Humans, particularly strangers or those dressed in unusual clothing, such as high vis jackets, helmets or hats
Vehicles - cars, bicycles or scooters
Noises, such as loud fireworks or banging doors
Other animals, such as livestock, squirrels, cats or birds
Fast movement, such as running children, joggers or cyclists
What does reactive behaviour look like?
Reactive behaviour can look like any of the below, often depending on the trigger for your dog;
Lunging towards the trigger
Barking, growling and snarling
Whining or crying
Staring or “fixating” on the trigger
Avoidance - your dog may try to escape the situation, by hiding or attempting to run
Redirected aggression - your dog may nip or bite you or another dog in frustration, especially if they are restrained on a lead
Changes in body language, such as raised hackles, stiffening of the body and face, a tucked tail or, a raised, frantic wagging tail
So what should you do if you have noticed signs of reactivity in your dog?
Reactivity no matter the trigger or behaviours displayed can be an isolating, stressful and upsetting experience for dog owners.
The most important way to support your dog is to seek help from an experienced dog trainer who is able to not only help create a training plan going forward but also help you to manage the behaviour during this time.
There is no quick fix for dog reactivity and I encourage those who see trainers advertise such promises to be cautious and wary!
Managing reactive behaviour may mean making changes to your routine to avoid pushing your dog over threshold in the early stages of training, such as avoiding certain environments.
Your trainer should help you to learn when to work with your dog through a certain scenario and when to avoid it and instead revisit when your dog has the necessary “toolbox” through training.
Tackling reactivity requires time, patience and commitment from you as the owner, in order to not only tackle the behaviours displayed but work on changing the mindset of your dog.