How We Fix FEAR REACTIVITY in Dogs

[@automatonstudios9717]

I’ve had my dog watch this video dozens of times and it’s like in one ear out the other 😂

[@andreatrenka5689]

😅😅😅

[@patdwyer6274]

😂😂😂

[@Aristogonian]

Gotta do the good ole South Park ADHD treatment

[@OakwiseBecoming]

😂😂 This video only made my dog worse. Won't stop barking at the screen 😂😂

[@bongjawn]

😂😂😂

[@berated4541]

The hardest part of being a dog trainer is articulating a concept, idea or principle to the owner. You do this better than almost any other dog trainer I’ve seen, heard or met. As a fellow dog trainer I truly appreciate this skill.

[@mitchellkuta5405]

Dogs easy people DIFFICULT. Yes he communicates well

[@ariera9873]

True true!

[@wookieelover9103]

Agree. Delivery is EVERYTHING

[@57colliegirl]

S--- I share your videos daily with other owners of dog reactive dogs. We support each other on Facebook. You explain thi GS better than ANY trainer online. Hands down the clearest, most helpful structured information. THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@geostorm9351]

You’re doing a amazing thing for many dog owners who can’t afford thousands of dollars for a trainer but are willing to put the time to train our own dogs. God bless you my friend and may he reward you for doing this.

[@emberknight6848]

i pay £90 for a dog trainer for one off my GSD and he has tought me so much for the one GSD we are having issues with atm, we found out it was fear reeactivite becasue he got attacked when he was a pup we have now got to the point where he is on muzzle on a long line walking with the dog trainers dog and if he kicks off we just widen the gap untill he calms down it seems to be working alot better he can be a pain as i am the only one who can handle him atm

[@OakwiseBecoming]

​@@emberknight6848 our female GSD was attacked as a puppy and she's not nice to strange dogs, although if it's obvious that a dog wants to play (especially if they want to play run chase run chase) then she's absolutely fine as she loves them. We don't feel that we need a muzzle. She comes straight over when we call her so we just veer away from other dogs on walks. But she's gotten to where she'll growl and bark out the window at dogs on the street when we're in the car 🙄

[@kalliamanoussaki876]

As a psychologist, I am delighted to see learning theory applied so well in the real world and explained so clearly. A joy to watch.

[@Lil_Kumquat]

also nice to see he doesn't omit quadrants either, but rather looks at the whole picture.

[@SkyxPrince]

Interesting. So as a psychologist, I'm sure you are familiar with the terms "masking" and "gaslighting". Now, as a psychologist, I'll give you benefit of the doubt that you are clearly not a veterinary behaviorist, an animal ethologist, or a dog trainer, so I wouldn't expect you to know what dog body language looks like. But as a lot of human psychology is applicable to a lot of dog training, I would hope you would understand what I'm about to say. Applying punishment to a fear reactive behavior is not an ethical approach in any psychotherapy. When you have a client that experiences extreme fear response to a trigger, is the best approach to punish it? Same applies to clients with PTSD, are you gaslighting your clients every time they experience a panic attack from being triggered? And as a psychologist, I'm sure you are familiar with the term cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). While a trigger may elicit an emotional response, the brain is using its irrational thought processing which results in a behavioral response, is the approach to tell your client "everything is okay" in French? How about smacking them across the face? Because let's be real here, we can hope that a dog understands us when we are doing the approach in the video but in reality the dog makes all the associations here. The dog doesn't know everything is okay. We are not "getting to the root cause". We are masking the dog's behavior and suppressing it and HOPING it makes the association that "things are okay. Human has it handled". But again, at the end of the day, the dog is the one who decides what the punishment is associated with. But if your client doesn't want to talk about their feelings because you invalidated their feelings and sits there quietly, is that benefitting you or your client? And as a psychologist, can you tell me what happens if a client masks and suppresses and what happens if that doesn't change? This is why dog training is not "black and white". It shouldn't be. There are so many factors involved and one tiny factor can change an approach. There is so much counter conditioning involved and we should practice more autonomy and agency with dogs like how we treat our psychotherapy clients, instead of "human takes charge" (or therapist tells me exactly what to do without making the decision on my own in your case) While yes, you are simply talking about the learning theory. You are also validating the methods with your claim as your title, a "psychologist". I picked your comment because you are validating something unethical. Giving a "psychologist seal of approval". But again, I will give you benefit of the doubt by either disclaiming your original comment or by deleting it. Hope this provide insight as to the issues with this.

[@MissMariQueen]

Oh, look! Pavlov has spoken. You couldn't wait to let us know you are a psychologist, could you?

[@1luxelife136]

Ugh SkyxNOTaprince. Don’t you have anything better to do with your time…like help a patient.

[@billygtrg]

@@SkyxPrincebuddy out here speaking yapanese 🤡

[@mycromancer]

The irony of being afraid to watch this video without headphones because the barking might set my dog off...

[@jessicajackson2951]

It'd currently setting mine off too.

[@ddm9786]

Mine too

[@Texas240]

Lol. Just rescued one and since my last dog passed away over 10 years ago, I'm watching vids to refresh and brush up on how to behave and guide her. I cringe and hit the volume every time vid has barking or whining.

[@RcStR365]

😂😂😂

[@jenbone]

Yup

[@teridaniels3269]

Your advice has changed my reactive 3 year old aussie almost overnight. I would punish the behavior but not fill the "hole" with a reward for stopping the behavior because that would be like rewarding the bad behavior. Or so I was told. As quick as I correct, I am now quick to praise. Amazing progress!

[@jingmoshanshui]

I just came back from a walk with my dog and wanted to share a positive experience with you. After watching your video, I immediately took my dog out for a practice session. Normally, when we encounter other dogs, I would make a U-turn to avoid any potential issues. However, today was different. Today was the first time I could continue walking without having to avoid other dogs. We met several dogs along the way, and I'm proud to say that my dog showed remarkable progress. For the first two dogs, I made quick corrections and then rewarded him for his good behavior. But what surprised me the most was the last encounter. With the last dog, my dog didn't even try to bark or pull. He walked right beside me, displaying excellent behavior. It was truly gratifying to see the progress.👍👍👍 I wanted to express my sincere appreciation for your video. Not only did it teach me what to do, but you also explained the reasoning behind the techniques. This understanding has been invaluable in our training journey. Thank you so much for your guidance and support. We will continue practicing and building upon this positive experience.

[@hamiltondogtraining]

Awesome work, that makes me happy to hear. Keep up the momentum! 🙌

[@nancypants107]

Do you use a prong collar on your Aussie?

[@nancypants107]

I have a Heeler that is having reactivity to adults and children, and am hesitant to use a prong collar

[@ragdollyally]

You’re an excellent communicator - your explanations are so well articulated. You present this information in a really accessible way and I love the way you make sure the bigger picture is explained too - much respect!!!

[@maiac.colucci8415]

​@@nancypants107 Get the prong and use the prong every single time. They only feel it when they get the correction. Give them one good one and it's done. The prong is like power steering. It makes everything easier. The dog is so much easier to train/communicate with because the correction is swift and near instantaneous...if it's not then it's only you. And then it's over. I cannot believe I'm writing this. I have had four beautifully trained dogs - three Austrailian Cattle dogs and one Australian Cattle/German shepherd mix. I think I can say I know Aussies. They were welcome everywhere and I could trust them with everyone human and animal kind alike. Now I have a nut-job rescue and I think I got it in my mind that since she was a rescue - 48 percent Aussie/45 percent Pittie - she needed(s) to be handled differently. What the heck am I thinking? The prong comes out today.

[@daniellepakus]

I went to an all day leash reactivity training with my dog and I learned more within 10 minutes of your video than I did from the entire in-person training. Thank you for providing such clear applicable education for owners.

[@hamiltondogtraining]

I'm glad it was helpful

[@nakitazmom1369]

I’ve started doing this with h my 8 month old reactive high drive working line GSD puppy- thank you! I knew some of these principl😊😊already but needed the whole picture! Much clearer explanation than most other trainers and realistic situations. Boils down to , the correction, you deliver must be meaningful and effective to the dog in the situation.

[@learning2no]

I am a new subscriber because of this video! First time I have been given the entire plan to STOP LEASH REACTIVITY! Thank you. You are a great blessing for millions of people and their dogs.

[@cindyvillagechick514]

It’s so interesting to see how she had growing confidence in your handling and corrections. She was allowing you to take charge and seem so relieved to do so, once she knew you had control. As a dog trainer myself, this is soooo difficult to get owners to understand that firm corrections are actually very positive and would be normal in a pack situation.

[@xxEmoxxCandyxx]

I'm having trouble with my dog. She is able to focus on me, not intensely but she does focus on me, and she walks beautifully on a loose lead or in heel. But once she sees another dog on lead she barks and completely shuts down, refusing to refocus on me or listen to me at all. After the dog is out of sight she stops barking and is now anxious, flighty, and trying to go back home. What do I do? I'm so lost...otherwise this dog is amazing, beautiful temperament and willing to work.

[@robbymonaco3738]

I've been training dogs 20 years and there are so may dog trainers out there that don't base their training on this basic concept of leadership, always looking for a quick fix. But Hamilton, you train the way I do. create that safe space, so your dog can just be a dog. Do the work, build up a confident trusting dog that makes good choices, knowing you, as the owner GOT THIS - so they don't have to!!

[@juelsitner3667]

I have been surfing for months here on KZbin and finally found Hamilton Dog Training. What a relief.

[@umalazarus]

Simple break down of the operant conditioning (instrumental learning) terms used in video here. Positive = Add something to the equation Negative = Remove something from the equation Reinforcement = More likely to tepeat behavior Punishment = Less likely to repeat behavior • Positive Reinforcement - ADD PLEASANT stimulus to INCREASE behavior. • Negative Reinforcement - REMOVE AVERSIVE stimulus to INCREASE behavior. • Positive Punishment - ADD AVERSIVE stimulus to DECREASE behavior. • Negative Punishment - REMOVE PLEASANT stimulus to DECREASE behavior. They cover the cause & effect of dog training & covers the associations dogs make with their behaviors & outcomes. And they choose to do certain behaviors based on their previous experience with the outcomes (cause & effect). Very helpful & informative video! Very much appreciated! 🙏

[@kelliewalker7281]

Thank you! My 5 yr old dog got scared by a big dog running out of they house while we were on a walk. After that every time she sees a dog she screams so loud until the other dog runs away. We have limited hers walks as a result. Shame on us. Now we have the tools to get to work on correcting this loop. Have a blessed day 😊

[@DrunkDrynasty]

Just want to say: This is the best, most thorough, no BS, dog training channel. I’ve been training my second rescue dog much more successfully compared to the positive enforcement techniques ONLY cult which I’ve only used until this week. Since watching your videos my 2 year old dog reactivity and loose leash walking has gone from a C- to a B+. I can’t wait to keep learning and continue training thanks to your videos. Thank you 🙏 from Justin and Gus!

[@Chloellekennels]

Possibly the clearest, in depth and well presented video I have seen on the subject and I have watched hundreds

[@joshstorie246]

Hundreds ? how's that even possible ?

[@wv9459]

Makes perfect sense. I have a dog with a similar situation. Loves the dogs he knows, but strange dogs there’s fear reactivity. I’m going to try to be consistent with this. Thank you!

[@rvandersteen]

Incredible video. I’ve watched so much other content on YT regarding reactivity and THIS was the video where it all clicked. The white board session was great. I loved the notes about not asking the dog to do anything. I would go out and ask my dog to heel, just letting her loose leash walk with no command was all it took. Also, the bit about neg reinforcement vs punishment. I realized I was offering an impactful enough of a correction and was negatively reinforcing her reactivity. You made it all so clear. Thank you!! 🙏

[@benjaminhatton8231]

This is, without doubt, the best dog training video I've seen. I'm a first-time dog owner with an (almost) 2 year old Border Collie cross. Recently, she has developed some fear-based reactivity to other dogs. The corrections we've tried have not been super successful so far, but this video has given me so much insight. Thank you from all the way in Australia!

[@Thatonedude227]

Please please please do not follow this video. This is a surefire way to cause your dog to further fall in to having greater fear. Physical punishment should NEVER be used in dog training the only ‘punishment’ that is effective at treating underlying issues is removing a positive reward, so for example dog is jumping, you would remove the reward of attention. By adding in a punishment you are not solving the root cause of the issue, you are having a dog that is now also afraid that if they need to defend themselves they will feel physical pain and so instead they will shut down. The fear is still there. I have been a dog trainer for 5 years now and I have done shelter work with reactive dogs in shelter as well as reactive dogs outside in people’s homes. “Don’t Shoot The Dog” is a really great book about the benefits of using a reward based approach over a ‘balanced’ one.

[@breadbun7077]

@@Thatonedude227 tell me you're not a dog trainer without telling me you're not a dog trainer

[@Erin_29]

@@Thatonedude227 🙄

[@youngprince716]

This was literally my situation (bc X lab) a few years back. It was so weird to me it was like someone flipped a switch. The dog totally changed. The vet said sometimes it happens around age 2/ maturity.... A few trainers /different methods later and were still going. Definitely getting better. I think a big mistake i made is trying to rush into the next step. Need to be patient. Cool seeing people work their magic on here. thank you so much for this video !

[@Thatonedude227]

@@breadbun7077 I am actually a dog trainer but ok lmao.

[@alysafleisher]

Knew all of this and we have done all of this for years (many dogs and decades of training), but our fear reactivity is with someone our dog has lived with for 3 1/2 years, her whole time with us. The dog gets corrected all the time, it has not affected a single thing about her being fearful. She has plenty of training, both in and out of our home. She has NEVER met a stranger or ANY fear in her life except for the child she lives with, but ONLY in our home, she is terrific with him outside our home. Outside our house she acts like a completely different dog with him. She adores him. The ACVB Specialist couldn't believe it was the same dog I took videos of. She LOVES every single person she has ever met, including children. I brought her to my son's high school once, zero issues. My child was small when she met him, but now he is bigger than many adults. I don't see how punishing a fearful dog will make them less afraid, it sure does nothing for her beyond the incident, the same with all the treats and positive reinforcement. Toys helped with the aggression dramatically which is now a non-issue, but did nothing for her fear. Thankfully my child is long past being afraid, even if she was to bite him by mistake. Countless trainers have not been able to come up with anything after meeting with us. The ACVB Specialist is waiting on us hearing back from yet another 'trainer' who has ghosted us.

[@bettaaesthetics7791]

Are they sure it's entirely fear based reactivity? I know a poodle who hates everyone in the home except his owner. However, outside the home he loves everyone.

[@alysafleisher]

​@@bettaaesthetics7791 well she sure seems utterly terrified, after her initial barking she generally runs away in terror. You can see her nails curled up and everything so it seems to be fear. We have been using toys, and also food for years and while they 'work' to some degree it doesn't effect the reaction the next time she sees the same child who at this point will be an adult soon. She is fine with other children in the household, whether they live in the household or they are visitors. Other adults are find too, whether they are household members, regular visitors or strangers. Just the one child she weirdly has issues with, but in the garage, driveway, yard, somewhere else she is fine. I am convinced we just have to sell the house 🙂 already. She has seen two behavioral therapists and they gave her lots of drugs which didn't seem to do much, and the squeaky toy recommendation. If you squeak the toys it drives her bananas and she barks & goes for the squeak. The toys work better not squeaking. One trainer tried the same idea with food, but he was giving it nonstop, he freaked out and ghosted us. Other trainer told us to go back to basics w/ dragging a leash, which uncovered an issue we had not seen in years. She has some weird thing w/ leash material. She had early on destroyed many nylon leashes, collars and two harnesses. She no longer does it normally, but it seems if I try to use it for training like this she goes back to it. I can watch her nonstop for 23 hours and I look away for a moment and somehow she manages to tear something to pieces. I had previously tried going to tabs, but in less than a week she destroyed two of them. I went to attaching a slip collar as a chain collar to take advantage of the 'weight' and attached one of the previously demolished tabs and it's loop as a handle and that was the best I got but it didn't seem to offer much benefit. She was hurting herself when it was as a slip collar. We went back to using the toys we know she likes, or popcorn. We are trying to get her to sit in order to get the popcorn, it's a huge pain long term to always have popcorn available, but it's the only way to get her to sit when she is so wound up; so we are hoping long term for some benefit but we tried this previously. The squeaky toys don't work to calm her down because once she is calm, she no longer wants the toy.

[@jilllorenz8542]

I have spent hours and hours going over so many other fear reactive dog training videos and you describe this perfectly in one session. Amazing! Thank you for the education and training you provided! Subscribed!

[@katja6332]

I am a train the trainer at university (with humans :) and I can clearly say, from a higher education perspective, this video is super good. Your way of explaining the concept is very clear, not to fast, not too many short stories that distract from the key messages, you visualized it with slow writing (that the brain can follow).. and later the exercise to see what you just explained in reality. A joy to watch :)

[@LauraArigo]

Thanks!

[@TeslaNick2]

Really nice work. You have a process, your handling is subtle, nuanced, great read on the dog and you build the foundations first. Impressive teaching skills too. It's so refreshing to see some high quality, professional work from a young trainer.

[@jashanbrar8668]

This is better than any Cesar Milan shit I’ve seen , more in depth and REAL , very helpful.

[@kimkane135]

For sure 100% more detail.

[@PanickingPat]

Amazing video! Thank you so much for not hiding the correction part with the prong. This is how we can help dog owners to apply timing and applying the correct punisher.

[@hamiltondogtraining]

We agree! Glad you found it helpful

[@jurejure7235]

@@hamiltondogtraining Can you recommend dog trainer that you know in Chicago area?

[@Tonifapiaoni]

The consistency is key, I realized i have been punishing but alsotoo many times negatively reinforcing it with my dog. Excellent video ! i have watched so many but you conceptualized it very clearly !

[@cherylsyoutubies]

My issue with going to new/unfamiliar places is that it creates the opportunity for exposure to uncontrolled off leash dogs (my personal nightmare situation with my reactive dog).

[@egle4652]

Same.. where I live, there is nowhere to go without meeting off leash dogs. I've gone a long way with my reactive dog but had to accept that this is the limit of what I can do for him. Breaks my heart.

[@yulgrebzz7111]

Yeah, it happened to me during a training session. My aussie was doing so well, and out of nowhere (I didn’t even see where it came from), and akita attacked my dog… let’s say that my monthly training was restarted in 5 seconds 😢

[@redcloud8274]

Same! 😔

[@jojo_fick]

Off-leash dogs are (what I believe) initiated my chihuahuas reactivity. After being trampled twice by over excited dogs, she is no longer okay when we walk past other dogs. It breaks my heart

[@jbrown715]

Yes, makes me so mad the off leash dogs. People so rude and have no consideration in public places. I hear ya, doing a training session and someone had to cause a bad experience . Even in a more control environment at a petco store I had it happen, people are rude and/or can't handle their dog. People etiquette with dog hard to find.

[@lanutriafeliz]

Apparently I was being really soft with the correction pulls, after watching this I went out, just had to correct maybe twice and then I saw for the first time my rescue focusing, following commands and relax with a dog nearby. This was the one issue I felt “stuck” with. Now I feel more confident to desensitize

[@sallymalnar4625]

You have a tremendous ability to explain complex dog behavior into easy to grasp ideas. Thanks great video.

[@paulalossner510]

OH my goodness! You just described my dog exactly about fear reactivity. That makes so much sense now!

[@janab3168]

This video is exactly what I needed... my dog got a bit reactive over time after being charged at multiple times by off leash non friendly dogs so I want to work on it. She's not reacting by pulling, lunging, barking,... but she's stalking other dogs (really fixating them and body going down a bit, hackles up...). Today I did a bigger correction for this behaviour and she seemed anxious and I wondered why because normally she doesn't react like this when I correct her for something like this... now I saw your video and it all makes sense... seems like she's not a dog who wants stress with everyone... she's actually fear reactive and just wants to go away. Your video is great and now I know how I can try to help her. Thank you so much! Btw... I love that your video is so informative. Almost all videos on the Internet about dog training leave you like... yeah OK but I still don't know what to do, but your video explains and shows it which is perfect. Thank you so much

[@Prof_Loredana]

I’m so grateful you posted this! My 18 month old Telomian is very fearful ever since we moved to Boston from our quiet house in Asia. He is afraid of cars, wheels, noise, garage doors, etc. I hope this video will work! Thank you! 😊

[@hamiltondogtraining]

You’re welcome!

[@debbiehatton8961]

Wow. My rock and I have been working with a trainer for three years. Her obedience is awesome. Her reactivity to dogs which is fear-based well I’ve never been able to get a handle on it. We are starting to walk past the trainers dogs Advil her corrections are much harder than you see this video. Clearly they are not hard enough from me. Your verbiage in this video has been so helpful to me. Our trainer says the exact same things, but in a little fancier language that I struggle with. LOL And I’m not blaming him!! There is so much to think of when your training a dog-your body language, your mental attitude, their mental attitude, their body language what’s going on around you not to trip over your second left foot. It’s a lot to take in for the dog and the handler. Thank you.!

[@debbiehatton8961]

Rott*

[@debbiehatton8961]

Turning down my auto correct now….☺️

[@nasseribrahim4751]

Wow....I have never, never, ever understood this. I thank you, thank you, thank you very much. The ever best explanation...period. congratulations

[@marlenejameson3028]

my dog and i got attacked by a dog leashed in a yard earlier this year and I haven’t been able to walk her peacefully since because of how afraid she was, this video has been so helpful thank you so much ❤❤!!

[@karolink3684]

Hi! I have just found your dog training videos and want to thank you for the high quality of information you share with us - your audience. I took a dog from a shelter almost 3 months ago, a girl of german shephard very similar to the one in this video and didn't know how to work with her. I was searching for support but couldn't find anything really structured and helpful for ordinary person who does not have experience in dog training until I fould your youtube channel. I am going to follow your advice in the subject to make my life with my new dog safe and joyful. Greetings from Poland

[@siduri03rob]

I love what you're doing. Your approach makes so much sense; the thorough explanation and demonstration leave a clear path to success. I've been training horses for 30+ years and I've always been very strict on my horses manners … and always followed up with lots of love and positive reinforcement. Because of that I've had many many remarks on how sweet my horses are and how easy they are to be around. I think a lack of understanding of how to achieve that sadly leads to many horses going from one home to the next, decreasing in value and treatment.

[@richarddavidson5433]

Thankyou for posting this. I have a collie / shepherd cross who displays exactly this anxious behaviour when she sees other dogs. Everything I have tried has failed so far (negative reinforcement) but this has given me new motivation to try and correct her behaviour (and help he enjoy walks more!!).

[@courtneyhager5612]

Are there training differences that should be accounted for between Socialization Reactivity and Fear Reactivity?

[@lesley9901]

I felt you explained the theory and concept well. What I didnt see is a dog who barks and lunges at a dog constantly and no stopping. this dog was what I consider as fairly compliant even tho you were saying it was difficult. I would have liked to see a dog who barks and lunges constantly. thanks

[@dangerwolfdavis]

Ive watched just about all of your videos. I really appreciate you putting this out and letting it be long and in depth. Reactive dogs are scary to work with. I have aussies. Ive had about 8 now and you nailed it when you said they are reactive dogs. Its been a constant issue ive had to work through with each of them. This is the best video I've seen hands down. Thank you so much.

[@JM59602]

Thank you! I have a fear reactive dog and I’m at a loss of what to do and I know enough to know that me being at a loss is not helpful for my pup. Thank you for working this through in my head. I just need to figure out how to practice with him.

[@peks4924]

Education then demonstration, can’t get anymore clear than that! Appreciate this video so much, thanks!!!

[@hamiltondogtraining]

Glad it was helpful!

[@rvingdog]

You are amazing! Thank you so much for unselfishly sharing your knowledge! This video gave me so much clarity on what happens with a neighbors dog and may give resolution to a very big problem! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

[@vonsuric]

Superb content, first class. I’m a professional trainer for sport and law enforcement. I could not have made a better presentation than this. For such a young man to have such clarity is outstanding.

[@haidennebui4148]

I needed this video so badly. We have two GSD that we keep separate because my 5 yr old GSD has such badly fear based aggression. She’s the best dog and they both are spoiled rotten. But it’s definitely been so challenging.

[@bilimamaphotography1382]

This is amazing! I had the worst morning with my Long Haired GSD (literary they could be sisters with the dog in this vid) and I will try your techniques asap. Thank you for covering so much of what I need to learn!

[@AprilCunningham]

I can just hear the positive-only trainers melting down at this clear and dynamic illustration. Great video!

[@hamiltondogtraining]

Haha, thank you! 😂

[@janel4582]

Yeah! "punishers????" OMG😱😱

[@bobbyhprado2871]

My 14 month old Rotty is reactive to his image on anything that reflects it . Ex: storefront windows, my shiny Ram Power Wagon and the real trigger is his image in the foyer of my building. I've learned to avoid most triggers including other dogs which once triggered and other dog is removed he moves onto leash aggression in a serious way. He loves people; especially kids and in an enclosed large open field he plays with other dogs without limitation and engages in rough play. There are a few skirmishes but very rare and he only retaliates when a dog tries to show dominance. I've stopped taking him to these dog parks as the owners of the offending dogs when advised of there dogs behavior ignore it and say "oh there ok" and Smudge only tolerates their behavior for a short time before protecting himsef. I'm following many of your training methods and they have help tremendously. As soon as I can afford it. Thank you for posting these methods.

[@chiahsinhung]

Do you handle the same way for reactivity driven by excitement or frustration? My dog wanted to engage with other dogs but expressed with lunging and barking too. He is very interested in other dogs.

[@julieepanouie]

Wow, your video helped me so much. You do a great job explaining how a dog thinks and how we as humans can help them overcome fear and being their leader. I have noticed similar reactive responses in my dog lately (he's almost 11 months old) and your video really opened my eyes how I need to improve my training with him. Thank you so much! Keep them videos coming :)

[@tinixbieni6653]

wow thank you so much. i think i can work with it. my gsd is so reactive. he would not even accept treats outside of our house/ garden because he would/ could not focus anymore. his reactivity always starts meeeters away by just seeing a dog. sometime‘s i am losing my nerves because our walks are not calming and fun how they should be for both of us. so thank you. we gonna try! 😍

[@kristynsbydarosati5518]

Ugh I feel this so much! It is so frustrating. And EMBARRASSING at times

[@prettymama327]

How has the training been?

[@britlowkey8053]

Young man you are amazing!! I watched this whole video and I truly I understand my dogs reactivity to other dogs now

[@depaki]

you deserve so much more recognition. learned so much from this video, thank you so much

[@greysonspencer]

I just moved to India and adopted two dogs, and man, it is such a difficult environment! We've got street dogs all over the place, and my dogs have so much fear reactivity. This video was super helpful, but I'll just have to take it one day at a time.

[@anniwilson2534]

Very good explanation and practical. As the handler of two rescue dogs who are reactive, you definitely have to provide clarity for the dog. Good point about dogs being contextual learners, super important to build on that foundation and repeat in different areas. The problem I encounter is other people not having control of their dogs. Often because mine look ‘normal’, walking nicely on leash, they assume it’s ok for their off leash dog to run up to mine. Incidents like that can completely set back fear reactive training.

[@BaughbeSauce]

This is why I'm here today. My service dog who - as you can imagine- has done perfectly for over 5 years, is now having fear reactivity issues since being rushed and then openly attacked by a lab mix 2 years ago. Today she got in a scrap with a mastiff because the dog was off-leash and untrained, no fence, not wearing a collar. Just ran over and drove her nose into her belly and tried to start pushing her around. My dog panicked and reacted, causing a scrap. I got a minor bite and scratch, both dogs are okay. The guy had to body slam and tackle his mastiff to let us get away. Just because you think your dog is "friendly" doesn't mean things are always going to go well. In the last year she has been bum-rushed by at least 5 dogs and several times has ended up in a defensive altercation. Curse that damn lab mix. And people, IF YOU DON'T TRAIN THEM KEEP THEM ON A DAMN LEASH.

[@joshstorie246]

​​@@BaughbeSauceiff you're dog is doing that it was a very poorly trained service dog to begin with iff at all

[@philippasalter1680]

All dogs are different and no dog trainer knows all we are forever learning through experience. It is as important to train the owner the dog feels safe with a confident relaxed dog trainer the lead it is like an electric wire channelling energy the dog will feel and pick up on this energy. Great respect and gratitude to dog trainers that walk a mile in the dog and owners paws/ shoes and spent a little time in their heads. I have learnt alot from dog trainers who realise the significance of root cause, and the need for trust and balance to help bring peace and understanding to our relationship both ends of the lead. I have taken alot from this video. Thank you ❤

[@romanacevedo79859]

You don’t know how thankful I am for this video. Your an amazing trainer and great person for having this information available. Thank you

[@hamiltondogtraining]

Happy to help! :)

[@mistybrass3719]

8months late, but I stumbled on this. I have a 9 month old German Shepherd. He loose leash walks pretty good now, and I am able to quickly and effectively correct his anxiety reaction to other dogs, but there's one dog in the neighborhood he gets rather aggressive towards. This dog has done and continues to do nothing to him, she tries to come over to us in a very calm and relaxed way and he just goes off. I correct him, I don't think I'm doing it right though, so I will apply some of the things in this video. I think I know what to watch for and correct now. Thank you.

[@niiikkio]

Incredible video! Thank so much for the deeper level of understanding.

[@DougHinVA]

He is very articulate in English and skilled with dogs. Pay attention to what he is showing ... a lot of dogs have this problem!

[@geoffhillier8738]

I’ll work on this with my 16 month Malinois x GSD, he’s a handful to say the least and we have trained everyday since he was 10 weeks old. Your video is very informative, thanks for helping

[@circleboxart]

How’s the progress?

[@geoffhillier8738]

@@circleboxarthe’s doing really well now thank you, 3 years old now.

[@circleboxart]

@geoffhillier8738 what kind of training did you do? Asking as I have Mal x GSD too and always on the search on what we can do better. P.s happy to head yours is doing well.

[@geoffhillier8738]

@@circleboxartdistraction/redirection. The trick was to get him to focus on me and mark it using food or toy rewards.

[@joefish6546]

Great explanation. A+ whiteboard work. However, we have a twist on this with our leash-dog-reactive 3 year old GSP-poodle mix who has recently turned a corner after a long period of reactivity. Our guy is food motivated, but not highly. We train him into a heel position (that's his 'alternate behavioral response') whenever we are approaching a situation that previously resulted in reactive behavioral response. When he drops into heal, he goes dog neutral by dropping his head slightly and DOES NOT want to look at the other dogs. But he will not take praise, pats, or treats until we are well past the other dogs and he has broken from the heal. Even then, it takes him a minute. He wants to sniff and self direct (he'll pull out in front or turn and drop back for something really important that clearly isn't there, it's like a self-conscious action). Then he'll bounce up with a tongue-lolling smile and take a treat, eye contact, and even a little prance-play before we move on. It's quite distinctive.

[@joefish6546]

Incidentally, I believe the 'neutral' behavior our guy has at the moment comes from the React->Punish (or correct) cycle you show on your white board. After 9+ months of reactivity we implemented a prong collar and used it to correct reactivity. We tried to avoid reactivity by remaining below his reactive threshold (redirecting before the reactive behavior happened and gradually decreasing his distance with exposure and positive reinforcement), but it was very hard as we didn't want to stop neighborhood walks while trying to eradicate the reactivity and there was no way to guarantee he would not meet another dog in our neighborhood. So at this point in his development I think he is just trying really hard to control his urge to react so he doesn't receive a correction. I'm hopeful he'll eventually realize that when he exhibits the neutral behavior and walks to heal at our side there is nothing to be worried about. He's already relaxing a lot around other leashed dogs on walks. We have gone from 9/10 encounters being reactive to about 1 in a week, which is probably 1 in 20 encounters being reactive. His early reactivity began at 12 months old (he would 'freeze' or crouch as dogs approached) and by 14 months he was barking. He obtained his neutral heel behavior about 9 weeks ago (about 30 months old).

[@vidarose3554]

I tried this on both of my dogs today and see a huge improvement! One of my dogs loves to pull. Today as soon as she went to pull I have a good quick yank, she yelped I think more out of fear. Never the less I felt bad, she still pulls a bit but a huge improvement. I also need to buy better treats because she could care less about milk bones lol

[@Elle82035]

My dog is the same, could care less about biscuits. Now is use freeze dried chicken or beef liver as her high reward treat when training. She love it.

[@valerieraiss7159]

Love this video! Very informative! Thank you

[@darkexcalibur87]

Wow I am seriously impressed with the breakdown in this video!! Definitely subscribing thank you.

[@hectorflores9933]

I thank you for these videos, I just adopted a pitt and boy oh boy I should've done so much more before adopting a dog. I am not at all ready and I fear everyday, but I am going to follow your rules and just pay attention to what my dog wants. Wish me luck.

[@ElizabethJW]

I needed this video! Thank you for breaking it down so so clearly. I have never heard it mapped out so well. You are awesome 😃

[@jayknot88]

I've already picked up a few great ideas thanks to this video. Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts and perspectives with the world!

[@karinreimelt4000]

Danke!

[@alejandragalvan5876]

This was extremely helpful, my dog is pretty reactive and we just had this issue right now (hence why I’m here at 11pm lol) tomorrow we’ll get to work outside 😩 thank you for giving such detailed instructions

[@angcasti]

Love the work Bro! Explanation of the concept in depth makes putting it into practice much easier. Thanks

[@Blinknone]

Fantastic explanation and really enjoyed the real-life application. You're a real pro.

[@micheldesrochers3684]

My god, that was a PERFECT and easy to follow video, easy to hear and learn, we are gonna start this training right now, thank you so much !!!

[@bodhidogculture]

Your clarity and positivity are really wonderful. Thank you for all the work that has gone into providing such thorough content. Wish I was closer to book some time with you!

[@candacestevens4446]

I would love to see this exercise with a truly over the top dog. I have a rescue Malinois with who is fear-reactive towards dogs and people

[@katielinn1801]

Hi! Can you please explain more about the "chirp" marker? Do you use it to distract them? Is it like "good girl", reinforcing the good behavior? I'm not too sure!

[@Kiba03]

How do you fix the reactivity when you don't have access to another perfectly trained dog in an off-leash area? I'm left to work with whatever dogs we see on our walks, which can range from as calm as the white dog in the video to also lunging and barking just like my dog does. We never see the same dogs consistently. Is it even possible to lay that foundation without such a perfect setup to start? What are some other negative consequences that I could use, if a quick pull and 'no' doesn't work due to my dog being hyper-fixated? I've tried increasing the range/distance but even seeing another dog 300ft away can set my dog off. The nature of being out on a regular walk means that the dogs we see will pass, and go away regardless if either barks/lunges.

[@gurindernijjar8683]

Try working on loose leash first without much distraction. Once you notice the dog is engaging with you and keeping an eye/checking on you every time you stop and turn then move to tackling the reactivity. I am dealing with the same issue as you and it is helping but takes time. I walk and stop/turn alot, and everytime my dog pulls or leash gets tight I give him a correction. Now everytime I stop he started glancing back at me.

[@Flippokid]

Look up Beckman's butt-flip. It turns the dog around 180 degrees in a split second, and it's great for outbursts. Also I've found that not feeding my dog in the morning and only feeding him on walks during the day does wonders for his engagement. It's a very powerful message: "you only eat when you behave." Plus that the hungrier they are, the more motivated by food they get. And exposure therapy. Just park yourself next to a dog park (on the outside) and let your dog watch. Maybe it takes 15 minutes to calm down, maybe 5, maybe 30. But only go away when it's calmed down. Not just in outbursts, but also general body language and fixation. When you see people on the street with dogs, try to notice how they're handling things. Are they actively training? If you have a walking partner they can go up to people and ask to help out. Be clear in what you'd like them to do (i.e. just standing still until you pass, or move back and forth at a certain distance).

[@pandasunflowers7200]

@@Flippokidmy dog cannot watch another dog. We can be on one side of our middle school track field and he will freak when he sees a dog on the other side of the field.

[@Flippokid]

@@pandasunflowers7200 Just stay there and wait till he's done freaking out.

[@wamboschannel]

Dude, that is a GREAT vid! The way you explained it is just outstanding. So clear, so straight, you are awesome!!!

[@nataliajablecka4133]

This is THE BEST video I have ever watched do dog reactivity. You are the best trainer ! Thank you for all you're doing 🎉🎉

[@go.get.it1]

great video and information. i have a question at what age can i start this type of training. plus my dog is very small 5months 10lbs mini schnoodle. i dont want to over do it.... thank you in advance

[@shaktiveda7041]

Impressive, message clear, well delivered as well. Definitely like this channel, thanks!

[@sgarcata]

This is really good stuff. Having experienced both balanced training and always positive, I know that the balanced form works best. What this video gave me that is new is how to "fill in the hole"; Now I have something specific to work with Milo on besides only correcting him when he reacts.

[@verysiriuss]

My Kevin (shepherd/pit mix) is getting better after neutered. There’s a dog who’s owner is on the phone while a the bark park. I punished my dog for barking at the other dog but I didn’t reinforce when Kevin came when I called him. I need to correct myself. I know Kevin is learning from me. He is so smart.

[@chennettajenkins1159]

❤❤❤!!! Helped my 6yr old schnoodle incredibly for the first time! 🥰🐶

[@shirleylizethmunozchavez7734]

Thaaaaank youuu sooo mucho, I’m from Ecuador and nobody here has explained me things like this, and I love my dog, but I was so tired his reactivity 🫶🏽♥️ thank you.

[@bellachan2155]

Very well explained & executed! May I know if you have advice for fearful dog that poos & pees when they're taken out? Thank you.

[@AdanKeresh]

can it be related to positive/excitement-based reactivity? I will give you example: my dog whenever he sees other dogs, he is pulling the leash, ignore all the commend and try to run to the other dog in gool to play. in addition, he barks (not aggressive barking and sometimes whining)

[@Michael_oliveri]

Dude! Loved everything about this video and the style you used to go about teaching the concepts. You're one of my favorite trainers in the game right now, thank you so much for putting this out and making it available!

[@hamiltondogtraining]

Glad it was helpful!

[@brett7220]

Excellent job, videos are fantastic. Are you using a prong collar here or the owners flat collar here? 24 minutes in.

[@rebeccacreech6823]

what type of collar are you using

[@thecolourconsultancy]

Great video! What kind of leash are you using? Thank you.

[@jakecini1257]

Try using a dog that rescts back. My clients and myself have to deal with dogs that react and off leash dogs coming close. So maybe show that also.

[@SeanHalls]

My husky has this issue and this was extremely informative! Gonna start working on this

[@markim5087]

I’ve had and trained dogs since I was about 14 yrs old..my first dog I was 2 yrs old, and he would keep me in the yard or follow me everywhere I got off to as a kid …when I was 5 I was found sitting on a military runway with my dog , I shut down the airforce bases operations a few times playing next to the runway..in the 60’s and early 1970’s it was much easier to get into areas you shouldn’t as kids..I grew up on military bases, infact I was born on one during combat action in the middle of a war in the 60’s ..I always had a dog on base, and trained them ,walked them, and hand feeding was normal for all puppies, although after they learnt the first 6 commands then we used the food Bowls..

[@odizdirtyninja8543]

keep up the good work. your work has helped me greatly so far and we thank you!

[@hamiltondogtraining]

Great to hear!

[@midskateboarder]

Wheres your video on loose leash training?

[@LynnetteDolan]

Thank you soooo much for such a well explained video. I have a very reactive Cane Corso and I have tried everything all those other videos say to do and nothing worked until today when I watched your video. He still needs a lot of work, but I was amazed at how he was much less reactive on our walk today! You're amazing!

[@cschillo89]

Can some explain the „negative reinforcement“? When I push not hard enough?