There have been so many “new” methods on how to deal with reactive dogs.
I have heard of trainers recommending all kinds of techniques to bring a reactive dog around. To be fair, depending on the dog and the implementation, many of the techniques based in actual fact and science, work. I am always weary however about any technique where the proponents say “x technique is the only one that should be used”. I am also weary about fad ideas and methodologies that promise quick fixes.
The fact of the matter is, when it comes to dealing with reactice dogs, especially those that are severely reactive, there is no quick fix. You can mask the symptoms. You can force the dog into submission and thus at times create all new issues. You can “manage” the situation by not allowing the dog any interaction or by instituting the bare minimum of interaction in order for the dog to function. I have seen all of these principles instituted in some way, shape or form. All of which meet with very minimal success.
However, none of these ideologies, theories or practices hold a candle to solid work done over time, being consistant and ensuring your dog is properly and safely exposed to other dogs.
Many of you know Rigger’s story. I started working with her in January of 2010. She was in rough shape. Rigger was VERY dog aggressive and would definitely be what most call a Red Zone Dog. She attacked all other dogs on sight, had no manners, had a very intense focus when in the vacinity of other dogs. Rigger was set off with little to no provocation. Most people thought I was crazy to start working with her. Even more thought that after four months, I was being stupid bringing her home with me.
Over the years, she has had her ups and downs. Everything was not ok between her and my other two dogs all of the time. But, with effort and supervision, slowly but surely she came around. She has been a constant source of amazement for me over the years. Rigger has taught me as much if not more, than I have her.
Here she is visiting daycare today. The spring in her step as she prances around the room, the fact that she can be in a large pack of dogs that are excited and extract herself from the same quite happily without prompting, the fact that she is confidantly interacting with strange dogs….says it all really.
How was this achieved?
I worked with her daily for four months building her trust in me slowly but surely. I introduced her to my dogs and built her trust in them. I got her spayed which helped take care of the hormones playing games with her system. I brought her home and offered her a nice safe and structured environment where rules were clearly communicated and understood. I had expectations and took every opportunity to praise her when she met them, and interupted her behavior when she did not. I offered extensive, and proper socialization in which I put her in situations which she may have been slightly uncomfortable but I let her know that I had her back and she had no worries. Slowly the negative reactions decreased and the positive ones increased. It was amazing to watch.
I am so proud of her and so glad to be participating in this journey with her. You have done amazing girl. You are a true representation and credit to your breed and to dogs everywhere who have come from troubled pasts.