Understanding Canine Reactivity

Reactivity in dogs is a topic that can often cause confusion among both pet guardians and

professionals. While it’s easy to label a dog as “reactive” and move on, understanding the

underlying causes and types of reactivity is crucial for those of us working to improve canine

behaviour and welfare.

At its core, reactivity is a reaction to a particular stimulus or perception of threat. This could

be another dog, a person, a moving vehicle, or even specific sounds. Examples of how

reactivity may manifest are barking, lunging, growling, or perhaps intense staring.

Importantly, reactivity is not aggression, though it’s often mistaken as such. In fact, many

reactive dogs are fearful or overwhelmed and are attempting to create distance from

something that they consider scary.

Types of Reactivity

Reactivity can stem from several sources, including:

• Fear-based reactivity: Common in dogs with limited socialisation or traumatic

experiences. These dogs may react to avoid perceived danger.

• Frustration-based reactivity: Often seen in dogs who are overly social and become

frustrated when they can’t reach what they want - like another dog on lead.

• Predatory/chase reactivity: Triggered by fast-moving objects such as cyclists or

joggers.

• Resource guarding reactivity: A defensive reaction when a dog perceives a threat to

its valued resources.

Recognising the type of reactivity is the first step towards supporting the dog effectively.

Why Reactivity Matters

For professionals, understanding reactivity is more than managing difficult behaviours - it’s

about advocating for the dog’s emotional wellbeing. Reactive behaviours are often signs of

stress, and if left unaddressed, can escalate into more serious behavioural issues or impact

the dog’s quality of life.

Assessment and Management

When working with a reactive dog, a thorough behavioural assessment is essential.

Consider the ABCs (Antecedent, Behaviour, Consequence) to determine what triggers the

reactivity and what reinforces it.

Management strategies include:

• Avoiding triggers during early stages of training

• Creating safe distances and using calm environments

• Engaging in desensitisation and counter-conditioning under threshold

• Teaching alternative behaviours such as disengagement or “look at me”

Tools like long leads, harnesses and visual barriers can aid in safer training sessions, but

they are not substitutes for structured behaviour modification.

Supporting Guardians

If you’re a trainer or behaviourist, supporting the human end of the lead is just as if not more

important. Many guardians of reactive dogs feel isolated or judged. Education and empathy

go a long way. Helping guardians set realistic goals and celebrating small wins will

encourage consistency and long-term success.

Final Thoughts

Reactivity is a behaviour, not a personality trait. With the right knowledge, patience, and

support, reactive dogs can learn to navigate the world with more confidence and the

professionals guiding them will be better equipped to make meaningful change.