Distance is the first tool
Every dog has a distance at which it can notice another dog and still think. Training happens at that distance. Working closer than the dog can handle just rehearses the outburst.
Give the dog something to do
A trained alternative — eyes on you, a heel position, a turn away — gives the dog a job at the moment it would otherwise explode. This only works if the behavior is fluent in a calm setting first.
Fix the walk itself
Reactive dogs are usually walked on a long, loose, wandering leash in a high-traffic area at peak hours. Structured walks at quieter times, with clear leash mechanics, remove most of the daily rehearsal.
When to get professional help
If the dog has redirected onto you or another person, or the behavior is escalating, this is a behavior modification case rather than an obedience one. Our behavior modification sessions run 60 minutes and start with a full assessment.
Every dog is different. If you want a recommendation for your dog specifically, tell us what's going on and we'll point you to the right program — we're at 8618 Ridgefield Rd, Crystal Lake, IL.