5 Myths about Reactive Dogs

Reactivity is one of the most misunderstood topics in dog training. "Reactivity" in dogs refers to an intense and often over-the-top response to certain stimuli, such as other dogs, people, objects, or environmental cues. This behavior is typically driven by fear, anxiety, or frustration and can manifest as barking, lunging, or growling. Dogs that display "reactive" behaviors are usually trying to put distance between themselves and whatever they are interpreting as a threat, such as another dog. Barking, growling, and lunging are all ways that dogs communicate "stay away from me!" Positive trainers work with reactive dogs to change the way they feel about their triggers, so that the dog doesn't feel the fear, anxiety, or frustration in the first place. By changing the dog's emotions, positive trainers can reduce and even eliminate the reactive behavior.

Unfortunately, there is a plethora of misinformation available when it comes to reactivity. Reactivity is often misconstrued as "aggression," "dominance" or "naughtiness," while guardians of reactive dogs are sometimes blamed for their dog's behavior or called bad dog owners. Traditional punishment-based trainers will use harsh corrections to subdue the dog's reactive behavior while doing nothing to address the underlying emotions that are causing the reaction in the first place.

Myth 1: You Should Show Dominance to Correct Reactivity

Truth: The dominance theory of dog training is outdated and counterproductive. Modern dog training focuses on building trust and rewarding desirable behavior rather than using punishment or force. Reactivity often improves when dogs feel safe and are taught how to handle their emotions through positive reinforcement. Current training methods, such as counterconditioning and desensitization, focus on changing the way the dog feels about her triggers, and thus reducing the reactive response.

Myth 2: Quick Fixes Will Solve Reactivity Issues

Truth: Reactivity often requires a gradual approach to training. Quick fixes might address surface-level symptoms, but won’t address the underlying causes. Sure, you can shock a reactive dog into stopping her reaction, but the shock won't help her feel safer. In fact, since reactivity usually stems from fear, aversive quick-fixes can make reactivity worse in the long term. Modern positive training focuses on changing the dog's underlying state of mind. This takes time, but helps ensure that the dog no longer feels the need to react.

Myth 3: Reactive Dogs Can’t Be Trained

Truth: Every dog can benefit from training, especially reactive dogs. Positive dog training techniques—such as counter-conditioning, desensitization, and reward-based methods—are effective in helping change the underlying emotions responsible for reactive behavior. Patience and consistency are key to success. As anyone who has been through any kind of therapy knows, changing one's emotional state is not a quick process.

Myth 4: Reactivity is a Sign of a Bad Owner

Truth: Reactivity is a behavior that can stem from a variety of factors including genetics, early experiences, or lack of socialization. It’s not a reflection of the owner’s ability or love for their dog. Guardians of reactive dogs often spend a countless amount of time and money attempting to help their dog. Unfortunately, there is so much misinformation about how to handle reactive dogs that it is almost impossible for a layperson to navigate the situation on their own.

Myth 5: Reactive Dogs Are Unpredictable and Dangerous

Truth: While reactivity can make a dog seem unpredictable, with proper training and management, many reactive dogs lead happy and balanced lives. Positive dog training helps dogs develop coping mechanisms and build confidence, reducing or even eliminating their reactivity over time.

In Conclusion

Understanding and addressing myths about reactive dogs is crucial for anyone working to help their furry friend become more comfortable and confident. Positive dog training offers a compassionate and effective approach to managing reactivity, focusing on building trust and rewarding progress. Remember, every dog has the potential to improve with the right support and training! If you are struggling with a reactive dog, there is help available. Click here to schedule your initial consultation and set your dog up for a return to harmony.