Owning a Reactive Dog

How has owning a reactive dog taught me how to have a stronger bond with my pups?

I have a theory that the amount of understanding and canine body language you master as a reactive dog owner has allowed me to become the best dog sitter I can be. My boy Oakley is very misunderstood. He’s the most loving and cheeky boy but some days he really can push all the buttons. After undergoing two major elbow surgeries Oakley developed excitable reactivity towards other dogs. He’ll lung, he’ll bark, he’ll be desperate to go over to say “hello”! To anyone else, a big German Shepherd lunging towards you might look like he’s sizing you up for tea but, I know all he wants to do is smother you in kisses, show off his bouncy ball and run around like he’s Usain Bolt.

As a reactive dog owner, I see you.

I see you taking the long way round because you know each dog that will cause your dog’s reactivity to bounce off the wall.

I see you watching your dog and others body language.

As a reactive dog owner you know how many breaths it would take if you let your dog stare at whatever is triggering them before they’ll explode. You know seeing that cat to soon into a walk will trigger them for the rest of the walk. You know which houses have dogs that bark out the window at any passer-by.

Loving a reactive dog has taught me all the things I didn’t know I needed. I’ve learnt more patience and compassion. I’ve learnt how to act more selflessly for the safety and happiness of my dogs.

This one took a little longer, but I’ve learnt how to stop caring what other people think – when I’m attempting to be more fun and goofy than whatever trigger he’s spotted.

Loving a reactive dog can be difficult some days but, it’s worth it.