04/07/2025
In many cases a reactive dog is extremely frustrated. They want to interact with other dogs, but being restrained on a six-foot lead creates pressure. That pressure builds frustration, and frustration leads to an outburst.
Liking other dogs isn’t the problem. The real question is: Why is our dog so invested in reaching other dogs instead of engaging with us or ignoring the dog as we pass?
In many cases, value has been built around other dogs—not the handler. Was puppy school more about off-lead play than developing engagement and our relationship? What fulfilling, fun activities are we offering that make us more valuable than external-motivators?
We also need to consider the dangers of on-lead meet and greets. Meeting unknown dogs while restrained creates an adrenaline response for many dogs. Add leash tension and the handler then separating dogs using leash pressure, and the risk of conflict skyrockets. This practice has led to countless avoidable dog fights—and often sets the expectation that dogs should meet every dog on the footpath.
Let’s be more deliberate. Facilitate play with well-matched dogs. Look for balanced interactions. Add in training reps between play so our dogs learn to disengage, recall, and actively engage with us—even around other dogs.
