A dog that pulls on its leash and barks, growls, rages, or snaps at other canines, people, cars, or bicycles is generally referred to as a reactive dog. A point to be noted is that such dogs aren’t always on the other side of their behaviour. Some reactive dogs are generally laid-back and friendly while they’re off-leash and only exhibit such behaviour while introduced to particular circumstances.
Most dogs get incredibly excited to see their owners or when they pass by other dogs or cats. While this is normal behaviour, a reactive dog will surpass excitement and ‘go off,’ possibly harming others. His response to such stimuli can get him to spin out of control and make it challenging for his handler to intervene.
What behaviours do reactive dogs exhibit?
The term ‘reactive’ is quite popular in dog training circles and is used to describe dogs who respond abnormally while subjected to normal stimuli. Behaviour and response to stimuli can vary between breeds. Every dog will require a healthy amount of mental and physical stimulation growing up so they know how to respond to specific situations. You can read more on this on KarmaPets guide.
Such dogs exhibit higher than normal behaviours, such as:
- Extreme alertness
- Restlessness
- Barking, whining or howling
- Urination, vomiting or defecation
Does a reactive dog and an aggressive dog mean the same?
An aggressive dog displays such behaviour because of his confidence. It is a natural tendency and can be brought on by several conditions such as territorial protection, protection of pups, and resource guarding. However, a reactive dog reacts to situations that upset him or cause fear. Some reactive dogs can get aggressive but will only do so if he is in a highly-reactive position that he feels he cannot escape from.
What causes reactive behaviour?
Here are some factors that can turn an otherwise calm and composed dog into a scary beast.
1. Genetics:
A dog’s behaviour is largely based on its genetic makeup, and a good breeder maintains the original temperament of its breed. For instance, Labrador Retrievers were bred to retrieve ducks, and Border Collies were meant to herd sheep, a trait that these breeds dutifully perform even today. As such, breeds such as Terriers display aggressive behaviour since they were meant to hunt vermin.
Even if you own a dog with genetic traits that lean towards reactivity or aggressiveness, all hope is not lost. With plenty of impulse control drills and getting tons of physical and mental exercise, a reactive dog’s natural tendencies to act abnormally can be overpowered.
2. Environment:
The environment also plays a crucial role in a reactive dog’s responses. While handled carefully, a dog that exhibits reactive tendencies may be able to suppress its naturally hostile tendencies. While genetic traits determine a dog’s reactivity to specific situations, maintaining a neutral environment may be enough to keep a dog’s reactivity in check. Most reactive dogs only exhibit abnormal behaviour while they feel threatened, and removing environmental and physical stressors can be highly effective in curbing such responses from your dog.
Handling and living with a reactive dog can be challenging, but with the right training, you can help your dog manage his behaviours and teach him to behave amicably, on-leash, and off. If what you are looking for are trained, highly obedient personal protection dogs for sale, just click on the link to visit the site.
