Client Consultation: Reactivity and Fearfulness in Puppies

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Yogi, a five-month-old Australian Shepherd, is experiencing reactivity and fearfulness towards strangers and objects. The issue started when he was around three months old. Yogi was obtained from a breeder who had multiple puppies at the same time, so individual socialization may have been lacking. Yogi's leash walking is good, but he becomes reactive when he sees triggers. He spends time in a crate or playpen when not supervised and is tethered when out in the house. Yogi has a short attention span on place and tends to hop off after a few minutes. He reacts to people carrying objects and changes in appearance. Yogi's reactions are milder towards family members and he can be redirected with treats. In this part of the conversation, Abbi and Millie discuss Yogi's reactive behavior and how to address it. They talk about how Yogi hides under objects when he feels threatened and barks at people or objects that approach him. They also discuss the use of leash corrections and the importance of teaching Yogi alternative ways to cope with his feelings of insecurity. Millie emphasizes the need for Yogi to connect back to Abbi in moments of reactivity and suggests leash drills to practice this.
Takeaways

• Reactivity and fearfulness in puppies can be a result of inadequate socialization.
• Tethering and using a crate can help manage a puppy's behavior when not supervised.
• Building a strong place command can help a puppy learn to be calm and observe the environment without reacting.
• Using place work can create a safe space for a reactive dog and help them understand that they don't need to react to everything.
• It's important for a reactive dog to connect back to their owner in moments of reactivity.
• Leash drills can help a dog practice connecting back to their owner and staying calm in the presence of triggers.
• Advocating for a reactive dog by using place and managing their environment can help reduce their reactions.
• Use the pressure and release method to help a reactive dog calm down and learn that nothing will happen to them while on place.
• Practice place work in different environments and gradually introduce triggers to help the dog build confidence.
• Use a tether to teach the dog how to handle their reactions and self-soothe.
  

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