Dog reactivity is a hot term these days. Reactivity is such a broad category of behavior it can be hard to know if your dog is a “reactive dog.” Does it even matter? Well, that depends on who you ask. I think it’s more important to understand that your dog is highly sensitive than it is that they are “reactive” but I think the more important distinction to make is that while some reactive or sensitive dogs show signs of aggression, that does not make them an aggressive dog. Let’s take a close look at 10 signs your dog may be reactive (aka sensitive) and how we can spot them to get them involved in dog reactivity training.
Big Feelings
The reason I prefer sensitive to reactive is that these dogs are just highly sensitive. They have big feelings about certain normal things in our world. They may love dogs so very much that they lose their mind when they cannot get to one to say hello. They may be so very fearful of humans that they bark and scream to get them to go away. They have normal feelings, they are just very big.
Easily Aroused
Dogs get excited, just like children. But dogs struggling with reactivity tend to get worked up very quickly. This may be during play, walks, or when you have guests over. Any time the energy goes up around them so too does their own. This may look like a dog who goes like the energizer bunny when something is going on.
Slow Recovery
When these dogs do react it is very difficult for them to recover, especially in the beginning. They become worked up and hold on to that energy with nowhere for it to go which makes it very difficult to continue on a walk. The struggle to down-regulate once they are already keyed up.
Hypervigilant
Sensitive dogs are always on the lookout. They look over their shoulder on the off chance the boogie man is following them today. Their head moves on a swivel always on the lookout for potential threats.
Larger than average response
It’s normal for a dog to respond when startled or when someone pops up they weren’t expecting. Dogs with reactivity tend to overreact, unable to think clearly during times of conflict. The garbage truck goes by and makes a loud bang, most dogs would jump. A more sensitive dog may jump, spin towards the truck, and bark loudly until it goes away and continue to watch for the truck for the next week.
Pulling Hard
Dogs pull, that’s pretty much a given. Reactive dogs may pull especially hard towards the things that trigger them like dogs, people, or cars. They may also pull very hard when they want to get to a safe place asap.
Panting
This is a clear sign of stress. Now if it’s hot outside, you’re out in the direct sunlight, or you’ve just run a mile, of course, your dog will pant. However, if your energy is low-key and you have a friend over or maybe you’re just out in the yard, panting tells you that your dog is uncomfortable and likely nervous.
Avoidance
A dog may choose to avoid interacting with a trigger they dislike. That includes people or other dogs. When people go by your dog may choose to hide behind you or move to the side and sniff the grass. If a dog races up to a sensitive dog they may choose to run away or try to and be unable given they are attached to a leash or in a yard. When a person reaches out to say hello to a sensitive dog they may avoid eye contact, turn their head, or even move away.
Vocalizing
Dogs bark, that is a given for almost all dogs! Reactive dogs may bark excessively and carry on for longer than normal periods, long after the initial trigger has gone. They may also bark at minor changes in their environment and sudden even soft sounds.
Lunging
Reactive dogs may lunge forward toward a trigger in an attempt to make them go away or, come closer, depending on why your dog is reactive. Sudden changes in direction to rush up to a person, dog, or car can cause us to hold them tighter, increasing frustration and leash pulling.
Now if a few of these describe your dog then they very likely are a more sensitive dog. Here is the truth about them, they are such lovely animals and with extra care and patience they make the absolute best companions. I invite you to get started on your journey toward helping your dog succeed with my free beginner’s guide to dog reactivity. This will help you reduce your dog’s reactive episodes and set them on a trajectory towards a happier, less stressful life. Click here to claim your copy today.
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