Reactivity training

[polkadotpup]

Has anyone got experience with the online courses I keep seeing? Our 2 year old is getting worse for lunging and barking while on lead and had a snarl at a giant dog that spooked him by charging over (he's little and I think was scared ) so I'd love to train him to ignore other dogs / wait for invitation to play
He used to be fab but after another dog went for him he's v wary on lead

On something like this I’d get some sessions with a decent trainer, who can build up to using stooge dogs. The problem is with online courses in this respect is you will need to eventually have some real dogs available where the interaction are positive (in this case other dogs walking past so yours can walk past and ignore too). If you try and do it 100% yourself when you build up to needing other dogs, your reliant on other owners- most of whom seem to be shit.

I wouldn't wouldn't recommend trying to deal with reactivity via an online course - your best bet is to speak to your vet and get them to refer you to an accredited behaviourist - you can even get it covered by your insurance in some cases.

This isn't a matter for an online course. It's a matter for an APBC or CCAB or ABTC qualified behaviourist. You'll need a vet referral and your insurance may cover it.

Thanks. Hadn't considered vets/ insurance

Typically he's been perfect today. Got barked at by a big boxer and he stayed quiet and revelled in cuddles from a lovely boy we met who was so respectful and asked before approaching him. He's also been fine and not reached at all on several training sessions with local dog trainer. Maybe I'm the trigger. Poor love. He's ace but I want him to be happy So I'll see the vet and ask for next steps.

Don't use an online course. Look for a qualified behaviourist try asking your vet. Reactivity . To be honest if a big dog came charging over most dogs would react . Also try neon dog uk for a leash clip or a yellow vest to warn others to give distance.