09/02/2022
A very short post on a very big issue,- reactivity.
Of course we see a lot of reactive dogs when we are behavioral consultans. And of course we can help. But it is not all about changing behavior.
First look at the why's. Is he in pain, or fear of pain? Not all pain is visible,- even to the vet. Is he overwhelmed? Fearful? Insecure? Not know to handle a situation, or not thinking you can handle said situation.
Then get to work
physical
*Change of diet or supplements.
*Providing the optimal opportunities for quality sleep.
*Stop exercises that is often the culprit of above mentioned pain, like "sit", "fetch", or "heel-look-at-me". Don't be shy about getting a myotherapist to give an opinion.
* check eyes and ears at the vets if you suspect any impairment, and in general for obvious pain sources.
emotional
* Adjust expectations
*read his body language (The calming signals)
*give him a break from triggers, and slowly build up coping skills
*Build confidence with for examle sniffaris, freework/enriched environment/sensory gardens and as many choices as you can.
*Improve your own communication skills, and help him find his own, - let him be heard.
*build trust and partnership
* no micromanaging.
Then you may start working on the triggers, triggerstacking, your own role in the situations and the behaviour that needs to be dealt with.
Behavioral issues is not about the behavior as much as the reason for the behavior. This was the short summary on an issue that is too big for a single book if you want to cover all the details, but this is the base of how we work (text von Linda Rugaas)