Dog Reactivity: Why Walks Feel So Hard (and How to Help Your Dog)

Do you feel anxious just thinking about taking your dog for a walk?
Do you dread passing that one house because you know your dog will bark and lunge?
Do you worry people are judging you every time your dog "loses it" on the lead?

You’re not alone.

One of the most common questions I’m asked is:
“How do I stop my dog barking at other dogs?”

What Is Reactivity?

Reactivity is when a dog overreacts to a trigger, such as another dog, a person, or even something moving past. For many dogs, the biggest trigger is other dogs, especially when they’re on leash.

Reactive behavior can look like barking, lunging, growling, whining, or pulling.

So why does it happen?
Most reactivity comes from big feelings, usually falling into one of two categories: fear or frustration.

1. Fear Based Reactivity

Some dogs are genuinely scared of other dogs. They may have had a negative experience, or they may not have been exposed to enough dogs during their early development. Either way, they don’t feel safe.

When we feel scared, our bodies go into fight or flight mode. Dogs are the same. But on a leash, “flight” isn’t an option. Many dogs respond by going into “fight” mode instead. That can look like barking, growling, or lunging, not because they’re “bad,” but because they’re saying:

“I feel uncomfortable. Please give me space.”

2. Frustration Based Reactivity

Other dogs react for the opposite reason, they’re excited! These dogs love other dogs and desperately want to say hi. Being held back on a leash can feel overwhelming, and instead of waiting patiently, they bark, pull, and lunge.

They’re not being aggressive. They’re saying:

“I see a friend! Please let me go play!”

3. A Mix of Both

Some dogs feel both fear and excitement, which can make their reactions more unpredictable and confusing for their humans.

A Personal Story

I used to feel stressed walking my own dog. The moment I spotted another dog, I’d tense up, shorten the leash, and rush to get past. It felt overwhelming every time.

I was a child at the time and didn’t understand what was really happening. I thought it was just “little dog syndrome.” In reality, my dog was experiencing big feelings, and so was I.

With the right tools and understanding, I now know it doesn’t have to be that way.

The Good News

Reactivity can be improved.

With kind, force-free training, we can help dogs feel safer and learn new coping strategies. Instead of barking or lunging, they can learn to stay calm and look to you for guidance.

You don’t have to avoid walks forever.
You don’t have to feel embarrassed or alone.
And your dog doesn’t have to stay stuck in those big feelings.

Change is possible, and it starts with understanding.

Ready to Help Your Dog Feel More Confident on Walks?

I offer one-on-one training designed especially for reactive dogs. Together, we’ll:
✔️ Build your dog’s confidence
✔️ Improve leash skills
✔️ Help both of you enjoy walks again

📩 Visit sammyspettraining.com.au or message me today to get started.

You’ve got this, and I’m here to help. 🐾