3 CRUCIAL Reasons Your Dog Is Still Reactive

I've tried everything... Why is my dog still so reactive? Dog trainer Tom Davis has compiled a list of the three MAIN reasons a dog still exhibits reactive behavior despite its trainer's best efforts. He also discusses the nature of dog training information, particularly on the internet, and how to recognize what techniques truly work.
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00:00 - Let's talk reactivity
00:41 - Reason 1: Your Relationship
02:03 - An example of difficulty communicating
04:21 - Reason 2: Lack of Obedience
05:26 - Reason 3: Equipment Use
08:32 - Examples of good equipment use
11:15 - Putting it together
12:50 - How do I find help? (Truth about trainers)
As always THANK YOU for watching, Leave a comment to support the channel!
#upstatecanineacademy #dogtraining #reactivedog

[@tomdavisofficial]

Reactive to neutral👉🏻 tom-davis-international.teachable.com/p/reactive-to-neutral

[@louisek6341]

Here in Denmark, almost every dog owner uses harness! I've never used it. Now I have a small dog, and I get bad meanings about how bad it is for the dogs neck, if I use a leash on its collar. What is your opinion about that for small dog?? (2-4 kg)

[@whyworkwhenicanrap6830]

My dog is extremely reactive I’m here to learn

[@lollypop2413]

Yes ❤

[@kimdorzweiler4745]

Quick question -- when you talk about lack of obedience, is it helpful to have all members of the family work on obedience or just one member of the family work on obedience? Thank you very much!

[@user-xv7ic1kc4f]

Thanks!

[@jo-anntroy3225]

After training my dog with just reward and never any consequences for bad behaviour I obtained zero results in solving his reactivity issues. I discovered your videos, and it has changed my dog 100%. The trainers I had advocated only positive reinforcement , so much wasted time and frustration since the classes dragged on with no improvement. Thank you so much, every video you post gives me more understanding and tools to help me help my dog.

[@tomdavisofficial]

Thanks for watching!

[@lillieberger2883]

A lot of us have been there. 2 years of trying what the PO trainer was telling me to do. Some minor improvements. Went back to my prong collar, started to train with an e collar and found a new k9 police dog trainer. Much improved!

[@angelinacamacho8575]

you need a good mixture of both positive and negative reinforcement to effectively train a dog. when most hear negative reinforcement or punishment they think of something abusive when all it means is the dog is receiving an equal yet opposite reaction to whatever they did. not many people see that when they do things like pull their dog away from something they want they are using negative reinforcement but in a positive way since it doesnt involve things like hitting your dog or doing something to scare the dog.

[@didialtair4722]

​@@angelinacamacho8575💯 exactly.

[@MG-pj2oo]

​@lillieberger2883 so your solution is to use more painful, inhumane collars rather than actually doing the work to properly train? Awesome...

[@whiskybrush3219]

I'd always thought of myself as a pretty instinctual and calm dog handler but this year I found myself in unknown territory when I adopted a freaking awesome dog that turned out to be kind of reactive to dogs and also to old people. It was really quite scary looking and I was absolutely not prepared for the reactions I encountered . So I went down the rabbithole of youtube training algorythm. Spent god knows how many hours with Tom, Joel, Robert and Gavin... Worked like crazy on my observation and timing, obedience and trust, and more importantly, stalked dog frequented areas and paths almost to the point of being weird. I live in the country so there are no dogs around. I literally would drive 30 min to the city daily, seek out the heaviest traffic dog trails, roads and neighbourhoods. Lurked in the parking lots of busy dog parks, walked along outside the perimeter fences. I wanted to expose her to as many dogs as possible in as controlled a situation as possible so as to be prepared for any scenario. I would make conversation with elderly people and build greetings, anything I could think of to stretch her boundaries and make her safe for everybody. It was truly awesome. We worked our butts off for months and I discovered so much! And it all started with Upstate Canine Training Academy. Thank you Tom!

[@tomdavisofficial]

THANKS FOR WATCHING!

[@erinlikesacornishpasty4703]

Omg...the old people thing is so wild. Like, I knew my pup would have some trouble learning to be sociable around kids, but she's terrified of older folks, especially those with canes and walkers. She was so reactive towards one of my neighbors who walked by carrying his cane, she pulled me to the ground 😮😢. I had to work on conditioning her to walking sticks and crutches also.

[@jessicagaffney877]

Thank you for this video ❤ I have a 3yr GSD that’s dog reactive and overall anxious. I’ve been watching all of your videos for years and it’s made a HUGE difference!!! Understanding my dog’s psychology and realizing that I’m the problem due to lack of leadership and weak obedience made me focus on training. I live in the city surrounded by dogs and I used to only walk her at 5am to avoid dogs. But now I’m more comfortable with taking her out in the afternoon (prime time for dogs) now she’s happier and less stressed. When I’m calm, my dog is calm. Thank you sooooo much for all that you do Tom ❤❤ you saved my dog.

[@tomdavisofficial]

I'm so happy to hear that!

[@tomdavisofficial]

So happy for you, Jessica.

[@hannachoe4283]

That us exactly my situation! I just moved to the city with my dog and she's overwhelmed. Would you mind sharing some of your favorite videos of Tom's that really helped you?

[@rebeccaglasmann9129]

You don't know how helpful you have been in our journey! As a family that can't financially board and train. You help has been indispensable to our life. It might a little slower doung it in our own but we are getting there! ❤ Thank you

[@tomdavisofficial]

So happy to hear, glad it helps!

[@Alwaysbmoving]

Love this video… my reactive dog passed away over a year ago now and I still enjoy watching your videos. And thanks to you, the last 4 or so years of his life were a million times more enjoyable than his first 6 years. Thank you for all your hard work, and sharing online.

[@brooklynslider]

I have been paying attention alot to force free recently because I think dog trainning should be as force free as possible. After you watch enough its easy to get into their line of thinking, especially when you see trainers who use corrections that are way too strong or done at a bad time. This video there kinda brought me back to earth and reminded me that corrections are not evil. It reminded of a biting teddy i worked with once and the second I gave it a correction it looked at me in shock but then there was an immediate decrease in her defensive aggression. Thank you

[@keltickelly81]

You are very good at what you do. Its a gift. Glad you are teaching people how to be better dog owners.

[@tomdavisofficial]

Thank you so much!

[@HappyDW]

“I care in an unhealthy level”. I appreciate that in you Tom. ❤ thank you for crazy caring about our dogs and our relationship with them.

[@kindredspiritsmas]

This is the best video I have ever seen in describing how to correct reactivity! I started training dogs probably before Tom was born, yet he trains for reactivity exactly like I do. Almost all behaviors can be corrected with a great relationship, obedience and the right tools! Thank you Tom for sharing your expertise with the world ❤️.

[@hiimelfo]

Dog training is a slow and long process based around consistency. There are no instant fixes. Michael Ellis is someone to check out folks. Trainers like Tom learn from him

[@craniumrex4614]

Love this format and while I’ve been an avid watcher of your content for over a year, this is the closest I’ve seen you make a political statement. It was extremely well made, logical, and not polarizing or preachy. You have helped me so much - the trainer who has advice I can use for all of my very different dogs. One size/approach/tool does not fit all! Kudos to the skill and craftsmanship you bring. Ego is a HUGE part of it - my own included. I have 50 years working with dogs and because of the types of dogs I’ve had I didn’t know what I didn’t know until I met my GSD cross rescue last year. I found you online and finally opened up my mind and changed tools, stepped up to become the leader my dog needs me to be. THANK YOU TOM. No bad dogs. The problem was … ME.

[@tomdavisofficial]

Thanks for watching!

[@azhikergal2246]

Thanks Tom, we appreciate your ability to break things down in an actionable way. ❤️

[@teairremoore7145]

You’re literally the only dog trainer I’m watching from now on. You break it down so well. 😊

[@pestimom6572]

After 4 months of trying to control my Padderdale Terrier (big prey drive), THIS video is my game changer. I've been binge watching all sorts of dog training and trying some of each. The fad now is to 'make them feel good' and 'shaping behavior'. I'm sure it works for some dogs. She came with a harness (we call it 'the vest') because she would slip out of a flat collar in less than 5 seconds. I've had dogs, but always easy to train. Your suggestions of equipment says 'no harness'. Ditched it immediately and went back to a choke chain I used on other dogs - before it was 'uncool'. She actually prefers this and we are both having more fun and doing more training sessions. She already knows the basics, but now is listening to me. What a relief. My prong collar is coming tomorrow. Thanks!!!

[@geostorm9351]

You are the best Tom. Learning never ends with our dogs.

[@jeno264]

I love how you talk about the tools and the toolbox! So much of the success depends on the owner using the tools correctly 💖💖

[@goblinkrunch]

Found your videos on Friday. It's Sunday, and I'm already seeing improvement in both my dog and myself. I appreciate you

[@pamim7902]

I always appreciate somebody breaking it down. Very small, is always helpful for those of us on this side. And I will continue to try to figure out how to be the best owner for my dog.

[@altgrete]

The last part about egos in dog training industry really hit home for me. I have a very dog reactive GSD x Malinois. Having trained with 2 different trainers with completely different techniques (old school corrections based, purely reward based), neither of them referred me to a colleague/other trainer when I didn't see long lasting results. I spent 4 months working with the first trainer and 6 months with the second one, with little to no results. The first trainer kept making it out like we were getting somewhere (which we weren't) but at the same time telling me my dog was one of the most difficult dogs he's ever worked with (which isn't true). When we hit a wall with the second trainer, she told me my dog's reactivity was probably medical and to put her on anti anxiety meds. Neither of them acknowledged that maybe they just didn't have the skill set to help my dog. I'm currently back to square one and trying to find a trainer that is competent enough.

[@tomdavisofficial]

It’s a real big thing unfortunately in our industry

[@liammaxsmama]

This SO important. Please keep putting videos like these out.

[@tomdavisofficial]

Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@ThePyrshepnBelgn]

Thank you for this video. You distilled 35 years of dog training to three simple statements. I've worked with every type of trainer and learned so much from all of them. It's refreshing to see someone distill it down to the simplest and most effective methods

[@Ohiotruckerkat]

I rewatch your vids constantly for the reason i want to learn and retain the information so i do not harm my dog using the tools and also to build confidence in myself even more so we can both be a well balanced team. I am a travel worker so i live in hotels over 300 days a year so having a balanced dog is hugely important. Plus I Love my dog❤️.

[@tomdavisofficial]

Thanks for watching!

[@patriciafuenzalida2112]

Hugely helpful as always Tom... I do appreciate the longer format! You are providing so much critical information. Thank you!!

[@tomdavisofficial]

Thanks for watching!

[@B.A.Bassangler]

YES! Keep 'em coming brother!!

[@christinefairchild1248]

I am always so thrilled to hear all these solid ways of "thinking". Your thinking is what makes sense to us. Even if some of these things do come kinda natural to a person to continue watching gets me focused! Not just for reminders, but it takes practice and being consistent, I don't want to start slacking. it is so good to hear how "to be", and what a dog thinks like! Just so great and needed!!! Thank you ...once again

[@tomdavisofficial]

Thanks for watching!

[@juliet-m31]

Invaluable information! Thank you!!

[@JeremyMcMillan]

All the "leadership, structure, boundaries, and discipline" is imperative for the human/owner/trainer, but what the dog has when those are provided is "feeling secure." This speaks to the benevolent but misplaced compassion people have when they project humanness on their dogs. It's "code switching" skill that develops the relationship. The more it works, the more the dog will lean into it.

[@Dognerdca]

I have seen the demeanour of a dog that is secure (robotic). As opposed to a dog that has been taught to make the correct choices without force. It’s night and day difference.

[@ally-kv8fm]

You and Will are my favorite! So amazing the amount of knowledge and patience you both have.

[@tomdavisofficial]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@PARoth2011]

The ending is fantastic and SO well said and empowering for everyone. Well done, Tom, Happy Thanksgiving!

[@anamariaposse5806]

As always, Tom, information is right on and so important. My reactive dog has changed so dramatically and you have been a great part of this improvement. I have followed you for over three years and EVERYTHING you recommend is accurate and so doable. Thank you and I hope people take this to heart.

[@tomdavisofficial]

Thanks so much!

[@BarcelonaDelacalle]

❤ these videos are so helpful, I cannot wait to get to your classes!

[@jacquelinemartin1886]

Your videos are terrific. You offer a solid balanced blend of kindness coupled with discipline.

[@aprilmalone453]

Thank you for all of what you said there at the end. I am a fan and that was a good confirmation for me as to why.

[@katelynhaffenden1978]

This video I actually perfect - the calmness and quietness in your voice is great - you're giving the information at a much slower pace than what we are used to these days which i think is absolutely perfect because it gives people time to slow down themselves and think and process etc. Great job Tom thanks for all you do and I hope you and your family are doing well

[@tomdavisofficial]

Thank you! 🙏🏻

[@naomivaux3433]

I work in a bording kennel and have found your videos really helpful in helping with some of te more reactive dogs we get in, even though its not their fault because of the unfamiliar environment and some of their owners, it has helped destress me and the dogs. We also have three greyhound at home which all have come from the track, on is now quite reactive so i am now looking at using your videos to help. Thank you for helping make sense of the behaviour and showing how to actually train the dogs and ourselves.

[@Italiangirl-421]

You are amazing and so helpful!!!

[@caithlinmeave4305]

I love your barefaced honesty I watch quite a lot of dog training videos & I have my 3 favs. (You are one of them) I have some issues that I haven’t found answers for yet having more than 1 dog but I am learning all the time… so thanks 🙏🏼

[@erikabanuelos9692]

I'm crying for your help 😭 this is amazing, I'm struggling so much with my 2 yr old American bulldog

[@Artistkellywest]

My cattle dog (who is reactive) and I have learned SO MUCH from your videos - your KZbin is our go-to when I need a refresher about training. Thank you for another great and highly useful video 💜🐾

[@tomdavisofficial]

Thanks for watching!

[@Just_Futzing_Around]

Love the closing of this video! ❤

[@Oldwoman1977]

I love these videos, thank you Tom . I’ve learned so much from you about what I’m doing wrong and how to correct it.❤

[@sandra9456]

Thankyou from Germany ❤

[@scottiajohnston8025]

Thank you for these videos. Reactivity is so complex from body language to vocalizations. Your explanations are so helpful. Even that small notation of when to correct will help me today.

[@tomdavisofficial]

Glad it was helpful!

[@reneejess-mil6739]

I like this general overview that hits all the key points. I love Tom's breakdown into a basic understanding. I totally wish I could afford a training session/seminar I know I'd learn so much!! Lastly, I totally respect how Tim deals with difficult owners (ex. Austin's video), well done cause I don't think I'd have the same patience Tom has.

[@tomdavisofficial]

Glad you enjoyed this video!

[@cheval90]

I do not believe that there is a video that you put out that I have not gained knowledge information and thoroughly enjoyed. Your presentation of common sense and how do you explain body language and the interactions with humans is amazing it’s natural. This is what you’re meant to do I have the greatest respect. It helped me with my own personal dog and my clients are responding better. Do your videos I’ve learned how to communicate better with the clients so for that thank you so very much. It’s greatly appreciated. Keep up the work that you do. It is super important.❤

[@tomdavisofficial]

Thanks for watching, Always appreciate the feedbck!

[@amybarber1821]

Great advice!! Love these videos! They are so helpful. Thank you Tom!! We appreciate all you do!

[@tomdavisofficial]

Glad you like them!

[@r_e.]

Thank you for changing me!

[@danis5225]

I'm a Dog Trainer in PA. I love your videos! I tell all my clients to watch you!

[@tomdavisofficial]

I appreciate that!

[@edv2050]

THANK YOU. Tom, your understanding of dogs mental state is spot on. Your training technique/philosophy works. I have noticed a difference in our communication skills. Again, many thanks to you and your team...

[@yvonnewood6046]

In love with this video, Trained service dogs in the past and i am amazed by your videos. You have been able to fully and comprehensively explain what and how i have trained dogs. Kudos for your devotion and how you help each of us excel with our packs

[@fludrbywest3886]

Yes this is very helpful, it reminds me what I need to be working on me as well as my dog.

[@Kryptic95823]

Thank you! Love this info, helps immensely.

[@erinmuetz8771]

Thank you Tom!

[@tomdavisofficial]

Thanks for watching!

[@user-ds8hv2bz5c]

wonderful video my brother!!!

[@user-eb6dq9wn5w]

Super helpful video! Keep up the great work!

[@tomdavisofficial]

Thanks for watching!

[@eileensherling2893]

Thank you so much for these!!

[@primalperry5667]

This is exactly what I like! Thanks man, this is my main obstacle that I've been working on for the last 2 years....

[@tomdavisofficial]

Thanks for watching!

[@Elquds]

Great video, Tom! More, please!

[@taminal6889]

Thank you. I'm going to try these suggestions.

[@inkstickart]

Thanks for these vids! Learning lots

[@axellevoignier4465]

Couldn’t agree more! Thank you! I would share this to my community!

[@tomdavisofficial]

Thank you!

[@cristina08888]

Tom thank you so much for what you do. As a dog guardian who owns a reactive dog I have learned so much. I now share it with so many people :) Thanks for these great tips! 😊

[@siriusley13]

I like this style. Thank you!

[@pamblackley2771]

These videos are awesome !Thank you so much for your expertise!

[@Rose19695]

I just found your videos. Your training style supports my dog's trainer's style.

[@GoldenWolf248]

The best advice I can give to anyone thinking about training their dog is to learn about stress signs in dogs. It will help you immensely if you want to train humanely. Avoid stress as much as possible and you will slowly rewire your dog's brain to be less stressed. It has worked for my dog and so many others.

[@dawnsaffel2620]

Tom, I love this video. Such powerful information. Now if people will listen and watch what you are showing. So they can build or heal their relationship with their dog. It is sad that some do not or have a difficult time with timing. Timing of correction and praise are critical and absolutely needed in training. Keep up your wonderful work. I share your videos and site to my clients. Hearing and watching me is not enough. It's very hard to record our sessions, but watching your videos really makes it clear. Have a wonderful day 🐾🐶🦮🐕

[@tomdavisofficial]

Thanks for watching!

[@denisetoften203]

Exactly what I needed today for our 3 year old male gsd! Clearly and simply stated. Thanks @tomdavis

[@BammBammthestuntman]

Thank you!

[@elizabethallen5276]

I’ve only watched two videos so far, but I plan on binge watching these! Trying to train a reactive, insecure dog, and I’m definitely going to use these techniques. 👍🏻

[@cathykirkham1438]

I appreciate your insight, and communication

[@tomdavisofficial]

Thank you!

[@dasheast1]

Love this type of video. Makes sense and it was clear. The ending! There are so many different thoughts about training. I agree, I’m following my gut as to what feels and looks right. Thank you!

[@tomdavisofficial]

Thanks for watching!

[@mairi87]

Wonderful videos! Thank you so much for sharing your advices: you’d been precious,the guide that I needed and I wish you the best in your job and in your life! Thanks a lot ❤

[@meosian1416]

Thank you for such helpful videos 💙

[@amyb347]

I have a 3 year old Australian shepherd and i wish i had known there was a right way to teach how to behave on leash when he was a puppy. He's very leash reactive now and we have a trainer who hasn't pointed out that a harness and my nervousness are issues. Also needing to train walking on leash in our house/yard before exposure to more stimulus on trails and parks. Im getting a slip lead and starting training your way immediately

[@dantemartin5609]

I am glad I found your videos. I will try these techniques with my Great Dane.

[@laurayeesnover631]

I've learned so much from your videos. Thank you!

[@IVIVVE]

great work! thank you

[@tomdavisofficial]

Thanks for watching!

[@AlienKissy]

Keep up the good work, Tom!!

[@tomdavisofficial]

Thank you!

[@bego0623]

Great and simple. Thanks

[@ericdowney6374]

Obedience provides structure and a basis for my relationship with my dog.

[@izzaduck8896]

Thanks for the practical lessons and sensible explanations. I've tried out your methods for walking my dog on a loose leash, successfully. It took time... but it's a good bonding experience and keeps my hyperactive Kelpie occupied.

[@annefontaine8678]

Very very good video! Full of good sense and intelligence 👌

[@erwinmendoza.ebmcce]

Very informative and helpful. Thank you so much

[@tomdavisofficial]

Thanks for watching!

[@TheOneAndOnlyFen]

Trying to fix my fosters reactivity caused by the last owner. Thankfully, I have a great trainer and am working her daily. When I first saw her, she was at the end of her leash, barking, snapping, ready to kill me. An hour later, we were out on a calm walk. We went back to square 1 training and its been months of back and forth, and finally I think we are truly ready to venture out on mini training walks again with a muzzle (I have a self propelled treadmill for her and we play outside, so she's getting tons of physical and mental stimulation). She's improving little by little. I watch these videos to better myself and learn to train dogs. My foster has opened up a can of delicious worms of my interest in training reactive and aggressive working breeds. As exhausting as it can be, I absolutely am loving it. Seeing my foster improve so much is highly rewarding and I want to help other dogs like her improve too, so they don't end up in a kennel or worse, euthanised.

[@tomdavisofficial]

Thanks for watching!

[@alicefelice_]

Very useful and clear indications. I do mot yet own a dog ,but following good instricture insights is a treasire for me. I am happy to see that you ha e international online vlasses. When i get a dog i will remember that. Thanks

[@CaliLovee9393]

Thanks for sharing! I have a very reactive border collie mix and although she had made some progress, we still have a ways to go and I love watching any of your videos on reactivity.

[@tomdavisofficial]

Glad you liked it!

[@user-hp3qj7lr8t]

So grateful for these bodies and You!!! You thank you

[@lynnharr8953]

Thank you for this video

[@william1919]

Keep up the great job. "No Bad Dog"

[@tomdavisofficial]

Thanks so much for watching!

[@frances8813]

Amazing video this is why I always try and recommend these awesome videos to people keep up the good work God bless

[@user-tt6ot3sk4k]

honestly tom i love your videos

[@Jem395]

I love your videos. Thank you. They have helped me so much

[@BMW1x1]

My timing was so off. Thank you. Implementing this today. Not looking down and quick snaps BEFORE the leash extends!! Thank you!

[@tomdavisofficial]

Thanks for watching!

[@margaretmeaker2830]

Good summary .

[@angiew722]

I appreciate all the details. We are still working on this...

[@tomdavisofficial]

That's great!

[@cataylor09]

Great video!!!!

[@magpiesneedle2575]

Yes we like, keep training us. My Chester thanks you.

[@yvettebennett6170]

So helpful. Shared this with my husband so he understands how to use the prong collar. Thank you.

[@paulkuss5099]

Tom......ya nailed it again! Just like your previous video on this topic. I testify these the things that will help,im living proof of it. People give it a try,but ya must be consistent. To me it boils down to leadership, for me it was like raising kids. You must be a good ,strong leader.....or father figure (or mother figure!). And honestly ,its much easier to raise dogs!😊