19/01/2025
Are we overusing the term " reactive dog?"
In my opinion? Yes!!
Let me know what do you think?
The term "reactive dog" has become quite common among dog owners, especially in the context of behavioral problems related to aggression, anxiety, or hyper-reactivity. In a sense, it can be said that in some cases, the term is overused or used too broadly. It is often used to refer to dogs that may actually be exhibiting behaviors resulting from improper upbringing, lack of socialization, or health problems, and not necessarily true reactivity.
Reactivity in dogs is a tendency to overreact to stimuli (e.g. other dogs, noise, or unfamiliar people). This is a more complex problem than just "vicious" behavior, so the term should be used precisely, after diagnosis by a specialist who will identify the causes of such behavior.
It is therefore worth considering whether we are not overusing this term by using it in situations that may be the result of other behavioral or health problems.