Where to Walk a Reactive Dog?

 

Having a dog who is reactive isn’t easy to live with. Going for a walk isn’t fun. You are being dragged across the street, your arm being pulled. You have to watch out for any possible trigger.  Your dog doesn’t do this on purpose to upset you. Your dog is having a hard time dealing with everything that he comes across. When your dog lunges and barks, you both aren’t able to enjoy your walk. It becomes a heavy task when it doesn’t have to be. So, what can we do to improve our walks?

Timing

Don’t be out when other people are out walking their dogs. Many dog guardians are out around certain times. This will be after they get home from work, before and after the kids are at school. Find your ideal timing where they won’t be many people out and about. This will make your walk much more enjoyable for both of you. 

Hire a field

Nowadays there are more and more places that you are able to rent for an hour. This will give you a safe place to walk your dog off lead. You both will have a place to relax and play without having to worry about triggers. The internet will be your hero for finding a place. It can be a field, playground or even woodland that can be hired. Your dog will be free to just be a dog.

Skip the walk

Sometimes walk don’t turn out the way you want it to be and your dog gets over threshold. Instead of going out again later, it will be better to skip the walk and just let them do their business in the yard. Your dog’s body will be flooded with stress hormones. Make sure you calm them by using enrichment activities which relaxes them. This can be puzzle toys, lickmat or a nice chew. It’s very important to give your dog down-time after encountering a stressful event.

 

Exits 

Whenever you’re out with your dog, be ready to make a U-turn in case of triggers. Walking your dog in an open place with many exit points, makes it easier for you to have an escape route. This can be an empty parking lot. Your dog will still be able to explore the world but in a safer place where you can keep his stress minimum.

 

Find a qualified trainer

There are many trainers specialized in reactive behavior who can help you and your dog. Find someone who is using force free training techniques. The last thing you want it to add more stress to your dog. You don’t always have to go see a trainer. Many trainers will come to your home so they are able to asses the dog in familiar territory and be able to guide you through your struggles.

 

Living with a reactive dog isn’t easy and it needs adjusting to your reality. You won’t be able to engage with other dog guardians and go to the dog park. But if you are able to understand your dogs needs, you will have a grateful partner for life.

You are not alone in this!

If you'd like to learn more about living with a reactive dog, check out my book Reactive Rescue - Understanding the Misunderstood