How to work with your reactive dog dealing with fear aggression

It’s a common scenario – dogs tensing up at the sight of another pup, a person, or some environmental trigger, responding with a full-scale stress reaction. We’ve all seen it: barking, lunging (fight), avoiding, hiding (flight), cowering, shutting down (freeze), or perhaps a bout of jumping and mouthing (which can also be a form of fear in dogs).

Enter the Engage-Disengage Game, a savior for those dogs leaning towards the “fight” or “jumping/mouthing” reactions. These dogs tend to ramp up quickly, propelled by fear, anxiety, or frustration, making it a challenge to step back from the trigger. Unlike their socially savvy counterparts, these dogs struggle to self-interrupt, making the Engage-Disengage Game a game-changer.

This game is more than just a playdate; it’s a stress-busting tool teaching dogs the art of self-interruption. Think: mindfulness for canines.

Manage exposures, decrease reactions

Before embarking on a full-fledged training plan to tackle stress responses, let’s dive into positive management methods. Every undesired behavior adds to the stress, so let’s cut down on those reactions. If things have escalated to biting or causing harm, a chat with a certified positive reinforcement trainer or a board-certified veterinary behaviorist is a must for safety precautions.

The Engage-Disengage Game: reinforcing new feelings and desired behaviors

To dial down aggression, reactivity, or fear, take a cue from desensitization and counterconditioning. The Engage-Disengage Game, armed with positive reinforcement methods, provides a structured path to dial back stress responses and instill safe and appropriate behaviors.

Two levels define the game. Level 1 applauds your pup for engaging with the trigger sans stress, building positive vibes. Level 2 flips the script, rewarding your pup for the alternative act of turning away from the trigger, a move incompatible with barking, pulling, or biting. Need a visual guide? Check out the illustration on the right or download it at Choose Positive Dog Training.

Game prep

Before kicking off the Engage-Disengage Game, gather your essentials: high-value treats, a clicker, and a humane harness or collar. Prep for swift U-turns with enticing treats or “find-it” games to change direction. If stress signals pop up, like excessive lip-licking or yawning, take a breather.

Click when your pup engages by glancing at the trigger.

Level 1: Engage

Start at a safe distance where your pup is chill. Quietly let them notice the trigger. Click the moment they engage, and when they turn back to you after the click, reward. If reactions or turning away don’t happen, shift further away to reset.

Level 2: Disengage

Once more, let your pup clock the trigger, but this time wait 1-5 seconds for a voluntary turn away. Click when they disengage and reward. Move closer after 3-5 successful repetitions.

Remember, the Engage-Disengage Game is rooted in scientific principles: Desensitization, Counter-Conditioning, Differential Reinforcement.

How close?

Keep it real. If your pup’s triggered by fellow canines, accepting they may not be a “dog-park dog” is crucial. Dogs have diverse preferences – some might prefer human company over doggy interactions. Going to a dog park might be like attending a rave your dog has zero interest in! So, snuggle sessions on the couch may reign supreme. Respect your pup’s pace and personality – training at their rhythm ensures faster learning and enduring results.

And a friendly reminder – if it’s suitable for your pup to interact with the trigger, tweak the game. A certified positive reinforcement trainer or a board-certified veterinary behaviorist can guide you in crafting a safe and successful greeting plan.

Proof positive

Harness the power of positive reinforcement with the Engage-Disengage Game to ease your dog’s anxiety and fear of the world. This game’s a troubleshooter in many scenarios – from helping dogs chill around a new baby to curbing fear of bikes, skateboards, or doorbells.

In the realm of dog training, science tells us that intimidation and pain aren’t the keys to success. Enter the Engage-Disengage Game – a positive reinforcement approach that helps your dog shed anxiety, fear, and embrace fun and safe behaviors.

Take your dog training to the next level with our tailored in-person and virtual sessions at Collab Dog Training. Sign up today and start your journey toward a better-behaved companion!