Listen Dog Training: The Walk & Talk

Have We Been Doing Reactivity Training Wrong?


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If you’ve ever felt like your reactive dog can only cope when you’re fully switched on, armed with treats, and managing every second - you are not imagining it.

In this episode, we’re diving into a powerful (and slightly uncomfortable) question: what if treats alone aren’t creating the kind of lasting change you’re hoping for?

Inspired by Grisha Stewart’s BAT, we explore the difference between traditional counter conditioning and a more autonomy-driven approach to behaviour change… one that prioritises distance, choice, and your dog’s ability to actually process the world around them.

This isn’t about throwing out what you’ve been taught; it’s about refining it, deepening it, and understanding when to step in… and when to step back.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

  • Why counter conditioning can sometimes create progress that feels fragile or dependent on you
  • What’s really happening inside your dog’s brain when you use food vs. when you allow observation and space
  • The key concept of control and agency—and why it’s critical for reducing reactivity
  • How BAT-style setups help dogs process triggers instead of just “coping” around them
  • The difference between a dog who is trained around triggers… and one who genuinely feels safe
  • How to start blending both approaches to create more resilient, independent behaviour
  • When to step in and actively train… and when doing less will actually create more progress
  • 🚀 Ready to take this work to the next level?

    The Listen Dog Training Membership is now OPEN - and this is where we put everything you’ve learned in this episode into action.

    Inside, you’ll get structured training, ongoing guidance, and a supportive community where you can grow your skills, get feedback, and truly master your dog’s behaviour.

    👉 Join here: https://listendogtraining.com/online-dog-training-club

    📱 Let’s connect! Follow me on Instagram and TikTok@‌listendogtraining

    🎧 If you found this episode helpful, I’d be so grateful if you left a review 🌟 or shared it with a fellow dog lover - it helps the podcast grow and helps more people train with confidence, clarity, and joy!

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    Listen Dog Training: The Walk & TalkBy Lisa | Listen Dog Training

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