Often, we get a little fixated on addressing a certain problem and can't see the bigger picture. If we have a training plan and aren't progressing, it's helpful to take a step back and ask ourselves if the training problem is actually a problem or is it a symptom of a problem?

If you don't have a concrete training plan or if you aren't sure what your training plan is, that's a whole different problem ;)

Underlying Reasons for Behaviour Challenges

Often a behaviour challenge stems from unmet needs such as not enough quality sleep, exercise, or mental, or physical stimulation. Physical stimulation isn't the same thing as exercise!

Other times it can be a relationship issue. Often, people don't know how to read their dog's body language, and even if they do, they don't know how to help in a way that actually makes sense for their particular dog.

For leash reactivity, many dogs don't have any understanding of "sometimes you can't have the thing you want", and that can be very frustrating for them when they see other dogs, rabbits, etc.

I'm not a huge fan of traditional obedience training, but consistently pulling on the leash can put a dog in a frustrated and reactive state of mind, so leash skills taught in our no-pressure way can be a big help.

There are so many pieces of our dogs' lives that contribute to their ability to handle stress in the world. Our Deep Dive on Leash reactivity will address many of these root causes and more!

Warmly,
Christina BSc, CDBC, PCBC-A, KPA-CTP