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Reactivity - What it is and What it isn't -
•Reactivity is NOT aggression
•Reactivity is most commonly confused with aggression
•Reactivity in dogs is when a dog overreacts to certain situations or stimuli
•Reactivity can spill over into aggression but it is important to know they are two different things.
What Causes Reactivity -
•Genetics
•Scary/bad experience
•Fight vs Flight
•Lack of Flight option
•Without an escape option dogs are only left with Fight
•Lack of socialization
•Lack of training
Early Body Language Signs of Reactivity -
•Yawning
•Lip Licking
•Stiffness
•Panting
•Inability to settle or relax
•Hackles raised*
*Hackles raised doesn’t always mean reactivity - can just mean overarousal
Further Body Language Signs of Reactivity -
•Ears pinned back
•Whale eye
•Tense body, leaning forward, stiff tail
•Eye Contact that doesn’t break or is hard to break
•Growling
•Lip snarls
**Some of these signs can be misinterpreted as aggression
What to do when your dog reacts -
•BREATHE
•Reactivity happens
•Regression happens
•Dogs bark
•Create distance between you and the trigger
•Think of a stop light
•Red – stop, too close
•Yellow – slow down, move away
•Green – means go, this is where you want to work
Questions? Want to talk about this a little more? Send me a message!
Reactivity in Dogs - What It Is, Causes, & What to Do
DISCLAIMER: The content of this website and community is based on the research, expertise, and views of each respective author. Information here is not intended to replace your one-on-one relationship with your veterinarian, but as a sharing of information and knowledge to help arm dog parents to make more informed choices. We encourage you to make health care decisions based on your research and in partnership with your vet. In cases of distress, medical issues, or emergency, always consult your veterinarian.