The term reactivity is a label, that is used to describe a variety of behaviors. And because it's a label, your definition of reactivity is likely different from someone else's. 

In this episode, I bring in Laurie Lawless CDBC, CPDT-KA to discuss what reactivity means to each of us, with both pet dogs and shelter dogs. We also unpack the term by discussing:

• What behaviors are commonly described as reactive
• Why it's so important to look beyond labels for dogs and understand them as individuals
• How we determine a reactive dog's motivations to better understand the function of their behavior(s)
• The role of barriers, and how they influence a dog's behavior
• Assessment procedures for shelter dogs that are reactive
• And more!

About Laurie: 

Laurie Lawless, CDBC, CPDT-KA, (she/her), is a dedicated dog behavior expert with a passion for helping dogs overcome challenges. Canine reactivity is one of the most challenging issues that present to both her private clients and in her shelter work, and has focused much of her career on figuring out ways to reduce and resolve reactivity in a variety of contexts and environments. With a background in animal advocacy, positive reinforcement training, and sheltering, Laurie focuses on resolving complex behavior issues to keep families together and collaborates with shelters to create or enhance behavior programs. 

Learn More:

Find a certified dog behavior consultant here

Canine Ladder of Aggression

Dog Professionals:

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