Anyone else dealing with a reactive dog?

So I’ve been working with my dog on her barking and lunging when walking. We recently moved to a place where people are always outside, unlike our old neighborhood. I didn’t realize how under-socialized she was until recently. I did some research on walking reactivity, and she was doing alright at first. I’d let her keep a comfortable distance from people and reward her for looking at me instead. But then, out of nowhere, she just lost it if someone walked by, even from far away. Super frustrating, right? But now she’s doing better, mostly just huffing instead of barking. I can give her a ‘leave it’ command, and she actually turns away. Still a work in progress though, but I’m feeling more hopeful.

I totally get it. My dog used to freak out too. Have you tried different treats?

MysteryMaverick said:
I totally get it. My dog used to freak out too. Have you tried different treats?

Yeah, treats can make a huge difference. I switched to higher value ones and it helped.

@BookwormBard
What do you mean by higher value? Like different flavors or something?

That sounds so familiar. My pup was also super reactive after moving! It really takes time.

dianastriver said:
That sounds so familiar. My pup was also super reactive after moving! It really takes time.

Ugh, right? It’s like they forget everything they learned.

Glad to hear she’s improving. Gentle leaders can really help too.

Jonny said:
Glad to hear she’s improving. Gentle leaders can really help too.

Do you find the gentle leader hard to use? My dog never liked it.

TrainYourTail said:

Jonny said:
Glad to hear she’s improving. Gentle leaders can really help too.

Do you find the gentle leader hard to use? My dog never liked it.

It took some time, but now she’s used to it. Just be patient.

Sounds like you’re making progress. Just keep it up, consistency is key.

DonnaHernandez said:
Sounds like you’re making progress. Just keep it up, consistency is key.

Thanks. I really hope so… it’s just a lot of up and down.

I feel you. I had to work through the same issues with my dog. Patience is everything.

Missandei said:
I feel you. I had to work through the same issues with my dog. Patience is everything.

For sure. It’s a rollercoaster, but I’m glad to see some progress.