
09/07/2025
A couple of months ago, we met the handsome Basil for a behaviour consultation.
His owner wanted some help with Basil's excitement levels when around people and other dogs.
If I have Labradors for reactivity, more often than not, it is excitement based. These dogs are bred to be super social.
Whether or not people like to admit it, a lot of owners are way more likely to approach, and let their own dog approach and play with certain breeds over others. This can actually make it harder for people to socialise their dogs properly.
There are those with more "undesirable" breeds, who don't get as many opportunities. And then in Basil's case, those with popular, well known breeds, who can't keep people and their dogs away.
So, finding a balance can be difficult.
We had a stooge dog out, and after some engagement and proper exposure, Basil and his owner did brilliant. His communication skills were also checked and all good.
Moving forward, it will all be about creating balance in exposure. Finding that middle ground and building more neutrality to people and dogs. Lots of work but such a good start made already.
Great work team Basil 🐾