1 Tip, 1 Idea, 1 Quote.
On dealing with triggers
Dog Trainer Auckland
May 27, 2025
1 Tip - on life with your dog
Some dogs are uncomfortable around certain things, like other dogs or cones. Try to avoid these triggers as much as possible. If your dog doesn't feel comfortable approaching another dog or person on a walk, cross the road, and if you see a cone, head off in a different direction. When they notice the scary thing but remain calm (or before they react), offer them a reward. By consistently avoiding what makes them feel unsafe and creating positive associations with simply noticing those triggers from a distance, you'll build their trust in you as their guardian, helping them become more relaxed and less fearful.
Please don't force them to 'get over it' or 'toughen up'; studies on learning have found that this often increases fear and reactivity.
1 Idea - on the leading edge
Build a foundation of safety and trust,
Avoiding triggers helps your dog feel safe in their environment.
Consistently respecting your dog's boundaries and not forcing them into uncomfortable situations, teaches your dog you are looking out for them.
Building trust and reducing fear takes time and requires patience and understanding.
Rewarding your dog for noticing a trigger subtly shifts their emotional response reinforcing the idea that you are a source of positive experiences, even when something might be scary for them.
1 Quote - on dogs
Reactive dogs aren't giving you a hard time, they're having a hard time. Unknown
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