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Advocating for Your Reactive Dog
Advocating for reactive dogs is crucial for their well-being, that of their guardians, and the safety of those around them. Years before I was a certified rewards-based trainer, I adopted Tildy, a small ginger and white dog who showed reactivity to people, vehicles, and dogs.
What do I mean by "reactive"? Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine defines reactive dogs as "overly aroused by common stimuli. They may lunge, bark, and growl, becoming so preoccupied with whatever triggers the emotion that they can be difficult to control and move out of the situation."
Reactivity can be fear-based ("Go away, scary delivery truck!”) or the result of barrier frustration ("I want to play with that dog, but I'm stuck on this leash!”). Sometimes, it can be difficult to tell whether a dog is fearful or barrier-frustrated because both displays may include barking and lunging. My dog Tildy was both. She feared new people and wanted to chase vehicles and wildlife.
Your Dog Is Inherently Good
These dogs are not their reactivity. Their response to environmental stimuli shouldn't define them. Like all others, these dogs are multifaceted, sentient beings with preferences, desires, and rich internal and external lives. So, if you're a dog guardian reading this, know that you have a good dog who needs some help. Your dog deserves that help, and so do you!
The good news is that we can support dogs who negotiate reactivity with advocacy, management, and humane rewards-based training strategies.
Advocacy Can Feel Like A PR Problem
Many times in our lives with dogs, we must advocate on their behalf. With reactivity, there are the added layers of lunging, vocalizing, and a struggling dog and the often harsh judgment of that behaviour by those around us. This can feel awful, awkward, and emotional. It took me practicing and fumbling my words and emotions many times before I felt comfortable asking for the help I needed from veterinarians, friends, family, neighbours, and even strangers.
In Tildy's case, advocacy was more than protecting her; it was a public safety issue. Tildy had a bite record. To prevent bites, I needed to communicate quickly and effectively with anyone approaching my adorable, seemingly harmless small dog. If I had adopted Tildy today, we would have started muzzle training immediately!
Communicating about Reactivity
Below are some of my favourite scripts for moments when Tildy went off while on walks. It's okay to use humour to build empathy. You'll find the right tone for you!
"She's upset. Sorry if we scared you!"
"Someone took an extra spicy pill today!"
"We're all a work in progress!"
"She's just speaking her truth!"
Everybody Needs To Know How To Turn and Go
Knowing how to do a "Turn and Go" is essential for all dog guardians. For guardians of reactive dogs, this skill is beneficial. And the good news is, it's easy to learn!
While walking, say "Let's go!" in a happy voice. Then, turn and reward your dog as you walk in the other direction. Practice this at home until it feels natural to do this with your dog! Then try it on a quiet street with few distractions, working up to a "turn and go" away from other dogs and triggers.
Dealing With the General Public
So many of us have had the experience of a well-meaning stranger approaching our dog no matter how hard we work to get out of their way or tell them we don't want to interact.
Speaking up on our dog's behalf can feel confrontational, especially when the stranger insists we shouldn't worry because they are "good with dogs." Be direct in your request. If a stranger does not heed your request, put up your hand and tell them directly to "STOP!"
Below are a few scripts to motivate strangers to keep their distance.
"Don't approach! My dog has mange."
"My dog isn't friendly with strangers."
"Steer clear! My dog rolled in poop!"
"My dog needs space."
'We are not available for greetings."
"We're training right now."
Veterinarian Appointments
Advocating for your reactive dog at vet appointments involves clear communication with the vet and understanding your dog's triggers. Let the vet know about your dog's reactivity beforehand so they can make appropriate arrangements like scheduling quieter times or providing a separate entrance or waiting area.
Let your veterinary team know that your dog may need a few minutes to adjust to the new environment. Be prepared to discuss your dog's behavior, triggers, and any management strategies you use. Avoid letting your veterinarian or vet tech take your dog in the back without you.
Removing the dog from you won't resolve your dog's feelings about what is happening and could exacerbate a fear of vet appointments and handling. Try saying, "My dog and I stick together during veterinary appointments. Perhaps we could take a break and try again in a few minutes."
Dog Sitters and Walkers
If you hope to use dog sitters or walkers, you can do several things to ensure your dog is supported and safe.
Look for pet professionals with reactivity-specific experience. Explain what triggers your dog has and any behaviours they might exhibit. Ask how they will respond if your dog is triggered and whether they are willing to honour the safe, rewards-based training protocols you have in place.
Always arrange a meet-and-greet in a controlled setting before leaving them alone together. This helps your dog become familiar with the new person and may reduce anxiety. If it's not working, you can intervene and end the interaction.
Ensure the sitter or walker has everything they need to manage your dog humanely and effectively. This includes treats, toys, and tools such as a muzzle.
In the beginning, I struggled with Tildy's reactivity.
As time passed, it revealed opportunities for our shared growth, and we got better together with the help of management, training plans, and meds. Advocating for Tildy deepened my compassion, and acceptance crept in. With the help of many allies, including family, friends, trainers, and veterinarians, we built a beautiful life tailored perfectly to our needs. It was grand.
Keep going, friends. And remember to ask for help!
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Lizzy Flanagan is a multi-credentialed rewards-based dog trainer and behaviour specialist who graduated with honours from Jean Donaldson's esteemed Academy for Dog Trainers, where she studied dog behaviour, training, and learning theory for two years. Through her business, Lizzy and the Good Dog People, she supports dogs and their people in one-on-one sessions and online classes. Lizzy shares her life with three magnificent rescue mutts: Tuck, Finch, and Idgie.
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