By Ines Gaschot
Barking at other dogs and
people when on leash is an extremely common issue. I refer to it as leash
aggression or reactivity. It’s usually an explosion of barking and lunging and
it happens to a variety of dogs – large and small, pure bred or mutt. This
issue does not discriminate.
It is caused by a variety of
reasons. History, genetics, health problems, general anxiety, or frustration
all can play a role in leash aggression. Whatever the reason a dog is leash
aggressive, there is usually a very similar protocol for each case. For the
sake of this article, I will use the word trigger to mean the person/dog/object
that causes the dog to react aggressively.
Here are the steps of the
behavior modification process:
- Teach the dog new skills to be utilized on walks.
- Create positive associations and emotions towards the dog’s triggers.
- Use the new skills and new associations to create a new behavior pattern for whenever you encounter those triggers.
The time it takes to change
the dog’s behavior depends highly on how long the dog has been practicing the
behavior, previous consequences for reacting this way, genetics, and handler
skills, but this process is the best way to create long term changes in the dog’s
behavior. While there are some “quick fix” methods, those often times only
subdue or hide the dog’s true emotional response to their triggers and can
create unpredictable dogs.
If you are having an issue
with your dog’s behavior on leash, I have started a new online classroom that
is geared toward people just like you. It provides step-by-step instructions
and videos to ensure you understand how to apply the exercises that are taught.
Also, if you are looking for private instruction, I offer private lessons via video
chat in a special package through the classroom. As a member, you can take
practice quizzes, discuss problems or questions on the community forum, and get
access to all the materials 24 hours a day.
Leash Aggression Classroom
Ines Gaschot
All Positive Dog Training LLC
The Crossover Trainer Blog
Note and Thank you: Ines Gaschot has a variety of experience with all types of dogs and is incredibly qualified specifically with dogs who have leash reactivity problems. Dogs Speak Dog Training is very appreciative of Ines for writing a guest blog and All Positive Dog Training LLC and Dogs Speak Dog Training and both committed to force free training methods and creating a better and happier relationship with your dogs. For more information you can also visit dogsspeakdogtraining.weebly.com or e-mail marcella.ward@tamu.edu
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