Frustration: Stuck and Struggling

Some dogs get overwhelmed when things don’t go their way or when they don’t know what’s expected.

How to Help:​
Before jumping into reactivity training, help your dog build the skills to slow down and think things through. Teaching problem-solving games and the right impulse control exercises gives them the tools to handle frustration and make better choices in tricky moments.

Feeling Anxious or Insecure

Fear and anxiety often fuel reactive behavior. The world can feel big and unpredictable for sensitive pups.

How to Help:​
Focus on confidence-building games and relationship building! Help them feel safer in their own selves and show them you’re a safe place to turn when they’re unsure.

Going Solo on Walks

If your dog is used to handling the world on their own, they might not realize you’re a team and that they can ask you for help. That independence can fuel reactivity when things feel out of control.

How to Help:​
Build connection through fun training games, communication cues, and shared experiences. Make walks feel like teamwork, not solo missions.

Not Feeling Their Best

Dogs who are tired, in pain, or just not feeling right can be more reactive—it’s harder to stay calm when your body’s out of balance.

How to Help:​
Make sure your pup is getting good quality rest, plenty of downtime, and regular vet checkups. If something seems off physically, don’t wait—get it checked out.

Bottom line?

Reactivity isn’t just a behavior to “fix”—it’s a message worth listening to. When we understand what our dogs are trying to say, we can give them the support they really need.

✨ Want to learn how to respond with confidence and clarity?​
Join the Leash Reactivity Deep Dive and get real tools to help your dog feel better and behave better.

Other Free Resources

FB Reactivity Group

FB Puppy Group

Relaxation Protocol

Podcast

Podcast

Blog