by liz@animal-insight.com | Sep 13, 2023 | Aggression, Behavior Modification, Fear, Leash Reactivity
A mat is a fantastic tool for our fearful and reactive dogs! It gives your dog a way to say “Yes, I’m comfortable!” or to say “I need more space.” Your dog signals this by staying on or getting off the mat. Your mat can be a way for you to “station” your...
by liz@animal-insight.com | Sep 11, 2023 | Aggression, Behavior Modification, Leash Reactivity
Did you know that leash reactivity is the most common behavior we help dogs with? While it can feel like you’re the only one with a dog who’s got Big Feelings on walks, you’re in great company! (Including with Liz and Zumi!) Working on reactivity...
by Cal Corona | Sep 8, 2023 | Leash Reactivity, Manners, Socialization
We can help our dogs feel calmer around other people and/or dogs on walks if they have a predictable pattern that lets them know they can go say hello. (And that any other time they do not get to interact.) Teach Your Dog the “Go Say Hi” Routine! When you...
by Cal Corona | Sep 8, 2023 | Leash Reactivity, Puppy Training
Teach your dog to engage with YOU when they see a dog on walks! This is great for preventing leash reactivity and for dogs who show mild signs of it. You can do this with any trigger, including bikes, people, etc. For the first week or two, teach your dog the 123...
by Cal Corona | Sep 8, 2023 | Behavior Modification, Fear, Leash Reactivity
You can use 123 to help your dog feel better about guests and passers-by when they are moving, talking, or gesturing! This is a great thing to do while your dog is on their Mat, but you can play it anytime. This is helpful both indoors and outdoors! When your guest...
by liz@animal-insight.com | Sep 8, 2023 | Aggression, Arousal, Behavior Modification, Leash Reactivity
Once your dog can respond to their cues like “123”, “Look at that”, and/or “come” on walks without distractions around, they’re ready to start using them around their triggers. The Basic Plan Every time you encounter a...