Just in case...

information for adopters

On-Leash Reactivity Towards Other Dogs

Congratulations on adopting your new family member!

As your adoption counselor explained, your dog has shown some reactivity towards other dogs
either in the shelter or in the previous home. Dog-reactive dogs may lunge, pull, whine, bark, or
growl at other dogs while on leash. Some of these dogs may even snap or bite if the other dog
gets close enough. When off-leash, however, many of these dogs friendly towards other dogs!
Walking a reactive dog can be difficult though! If you follow the guidelines below, you should be
able to safely walk your new dog and have a healthy, happy and long-lasting relationship!

 Fill your pockets or treat bag with delicious treats before every walk.
 If you choose to use a walking aid, use a humane walking tool such as an easy walk
harness, a freedom harness or gentle leader. If you need help choosing a walking tool
please contact us!
 To help your dog focus on something else, teach your dog to “look”. To teach “Look”
hold a treat next to your eye and ask your dog to “look” as soon as they make eye
contact, say “Yes!” and give the reward. Practice this inside in a low distraction area first
until the cue is reliable and then begin practicing outside where there are no other dogs.
 Try to avoid dogs for the first week after you bring your new pet home. Practice “Look”
exercises many times on your walks. Also ask your dog to move with you as you hold
treats in front of the dog’s mouth. When your dog follows close to your hand, say “yes!”
and give small bits of reward.
 When you see your first dog, use treats to lure your dog (with them following your hand
full of treats) away from the other dog and towards you while you keep walking. Do this
even if your dog is not reactive. When your dog is not being reactive, ask for “Look” and
then praise and reward.
 If your dog is reactive to every dog they see without you being able to redirect them,
you are too close to the other dogs for your dog to tolerate. Try increasing the distance
between yourself and the other dogs and practice again.
 Until you get to know your dog’s off leash behavior, do not attempt to go to dog parks. If
you have a safe, secured yard, you can try to plan play time with one of your friend’s
dog friendly dogs!

If you are having issues managing/treating your dog’s dog-reactivity issues, please contact
our trainer at JGibson@adltexas.org for more tips and information!
*Special thanks to the center for shelter dogs for this resource.