Reactivity: a step-by-step management plan

Walking your dog should be a relaxing experience—but if your dog barks, lunges, or growls when they see other dogs, people, or vehicles on leash, know that you’re not alone. Leash reactivity is one of the most common behavior challenges dog owners face, and it can be stressful, embarrassing, and confusing.

The good news? With the right tools, techniques, and a plan tailored to your dog’s needs, leash reactivity can be managed—and improved.

Here’s a step-by-step management plan to help you understand what’s happening and how to support your dog.

Step 1: Understand What Leash Reactivity Is

Leash reactivity is a big emotional reaction to a trigger—like another dog, person, or moving object—while on leash. These outbursts often involve barking, lunging, or growling and are usually caused by:

• Frustration (wanting to get to the trigger and being held back)

• Fear or anxiety (trying to create distance from a perceived threat)

• Lack of coping skills in stimulating environments

Importantly, leash reactivity doesn’t mean your dog is “aggressive.” It means they’re overwhelmed and don’t know what else to do.

Step 2: Identify Your Dog’s Triggers

Start by observing and documenting your dog’s reactivity:

• What does your dog react to? (Dogs, people, bikes, kids?)

• At what distance does the reaction begin?

• How long does it take them to recover?

Understanding your dog’s threshold—the point at which they go from calm to reactive—is crucial for managing and changing the behavior.

Step 3: Use Management Tools Strategically

You can’t train a dog who is over threshold. That’s why management is your first line of defense:

• Increase distance: Cross the street or turn around before your dog reacts.

• Use visual barriers: Parked cars, trees, fences, or even your body can block sightlines.

• Walk during quiet times: Fewer triggers = more success.

• Use the right equipment: A well-fitted harness, head halter, or front-clip harness can provide better control and reduce pulling (avoid choke or prong collars).

Also bring high-value treats your dog loves—think cheese, hot dogs, or freeze-dried liver—for rewarding good behavior.

Step 4: Train Alternative Behaviors at a Safe Distance

Now that you’re managing the environment, you can begin training your dog to respond differently to their triggers.

Start below threshold, where your dog can see the trigger but still respond to you calmly. Then try:

Look at That Game (LAT)

• When your dog looks at the trigger calmly, mark (with a clicker or “yes”) and reward.

• This teaches them that looking = good things happen, and builds emotional stability.

U-Turns and Emergency Exits

• Practice “Let’s go!” or a U-turn cue to move away before a reaction happens.

• Reinforce with treats so it becomes a fun, reliable response.

Utilize Pattern Games

• Pattern games, from Leslie McDevitt’s Control Unleashed program, are short, predictable sequences that help your dog stay engaged, focused, and calm in challenging environments. They use structure and repetition to lower arousal and build confidence.

Repetition and consistency matter—celebrate the small wins!

Step 5: Practice Regularly & Gradually Decrease Distance

With daily practice, you can gradually decrease the distance between your dog and the trigger—but only at your dog’s pace. Rushing this step can undo your progress.

• Keep sessions short, frequent, and low-pressure.

• Practice in low-distraction environments first, then build up.

• If your dog reacts, don’t punish—increase distance, reset, and try again later.

Progress may be slow and non-linear, but each positive repetition builds better habits.

Step 6: Don’t Go It Alone

Leash reactivity is emotionally draining—for both you and your dog. If you’re feeling stuck, working with a professional trainer experienced in reactivity can make a huge difference. They’ll help you:

• Interpret your dog’s body language

• Set realistic goals

• Create a custom plan

• Provide support when things get tough

And Remember…

Your dog isn’t giving you a hard time—they’re having a hard time. Leash reactivity is a challenge, but with management, patience, and positive training, you can turn those stressful walks into calmer, more confident outings.

Need Help with Leash Reactivity?

At Bright Pet Behavior and Training, we specialize in helping dogs with reactivity and fear-based behaviors using science-based, force-free methods. If you’re ready for more peaceful walks, we’d love to help.

 Visit our Training Services page to learn more.