Leash reactivity is not the focus of any initial training course. Initial courses are: Dog Training Essentials – 9 sessions; Basic Obedience Course – 6 sessions; Full Obedience Course – 12 sessions.
However, it does necessarily take place by default, in all courses taught in public places.
*Every dog will be tested for leash reactivity during the normal process of all training courses.
Process For Leash Reactive Dogs:
1) Focus on learning and competence in basic obedience.
2) Discuss and (owner) implement a specific exercise program.
3) Catalog dog’s specific problems and attempt to desensitize with strategic, progressive exposure.
4) Apply precise correction when/where appropriate.
>Reactivity may be any individual or combination of reactions to people, other dogs, other animals, moving objects.
>Reactions may include hard pulling towards a ‘target’, stationary fixation, growling, barking, lunging, air snapping, whining, erratic movement.
>The four steps above are to provide the most positive outcome possible while training. And they are to provide the owner a foundation to continue to work their dog through reactivity once their course is complete.