How to Start Training Your Reactive Dog: A Gentle Guide
Ever find your walks with your furry friend turning into stressful experiences when your pup reacts to every little thing? Whether it's other dogs, people, or even cars, having a reactive dog can feel overwhelming.
Trust me, I’ve been there too!
But I'm excited to introduce you to a lifesaver in the world of dog training: LAT (Look At That) training.
Understanding Reactive Behaviours
Before we jump into the "how," let's understand the "why." A reactive dog isn't "bad" or "untrainable." Reactivity is often a response to fear, frustration, or excitement. Your dog may feel overwhelmed and unsure how to react appropriately. That's where LAT comes in handy!
What is LAT Training?
LAT stands for "Look At That." It's a positive reinforcement training technique designed to help your dog become more comfortable around their triggers.
Why LAT Training Works
The reason I'm sharing this magical technique is that LAT training changes how your dog perceives triggers. Instead of seeing another dog and thinking, "Oh no, danger!" your pup starts to think, "Look at that and get a treat from Mum/Dad!" It’s a simple shift in perspective that can make a world of difference.
Steps to Get Started with LAT Training
Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need high-value treats (ones your dog absolutely loves), a clicker (if you're into clicker training), and a quiet starting environment.
Start in a Controlled Environment: Begin at home where there are minimal distractions. Hold a treat in one hand and let your dog see it.
Introduce a Neutral Trigger: Start with something neutral, like a toy or a household object. The reason for this is to warm up your dog's brain to the concept of "look at that."
Mark the Behavior: When your dog looks at the trigger, immediately click (if using a clicker) and give a treat. Repeat this process several times. This helps your dog learn that looking at the trigger results in something positive.
Introduce Mild Triggers: Slowly introduce mild versions of your dog's reactives, such as a stuffed animal instead of a real dog. Keep the distance enough that your dog doesn't go into full-on reaction mode.
Gradually Increase Difficulty: Over time, increase the difficulty by bringing in real-life triggers. Do this gradually and always keep your distance to where your dog feels safe and can still focus on you.
Practice Consistently: Consistency is key. Spend a few minutes each day practicing LAT training. The more positive experiences your dog has with triggers, the more they’ll start to relax in their presence.
Tips for Success
Remain Calm: Your dog takes cues from you. Stay calm and positive during training sessions.
Keep Sessions Short: Training can be taxing. Keep sessions short but frequent to avoid overwhelming your pup.
Celebrate Small Wins: Every step forward is progress. Celebrate small victories and stay patient.
How LAT Training Transforms Behavior
Thinking back to when I started LAT training with my reactive dog, Bonnie, the progress was gradual but incredible. From full-on barking fits to merely glancing at triggers, the transformation filled me with hope and pride. And trust me, if we can do it, so can you!
Final Thoughts
LAT training is a compassionate, effective method for helping reactive dogs find peace in a world full of triggers. By changing their perception and building positive associations, you’re setting your dog up for a happier, less stressful life.
So, if you’ve clicked onto this blog feeling overwhelmed by your reactive dog, take a deep breath. You’re not alone, and there are tools and techniques, like LAT training, that can begin to make a huge difference.
What would you do now? Get started on those first steps, and remember they are first steps, celebrate the small victories, and most importantly, enjoy the journey with your furry friend. You've got this, dog parent!
Need help implementing LAT training AND the steps beyond with your reactive dog?! Get in touch via WhatsApp - 07476 903840 to find out how I can help you on your reactive dog journey - and remember, you’re not alone. 🐾🌟
