Why Do Dogs React to Other Dogs on Walks?
Walking your dog should be one of the most enjoyable activities of the day. It’s a time for fresh air, light exercise, and bonding with your furry companion. But for many pet parents, these walks can turn stressful when their dog constantly barks, pulls, or lunges at other dogs. Whether it’s excitement or reactivity, teaching your dog to stay calm and ignore other dogs on walks is a skill that takes time, consistency, and patience.
In this guide, we’ll explore why dogs react to other dogs on walks, what you can do to train them, and step-by-step strategies that will help you turn stressful outings into peaceful, enjoyable experiences.
- Excitement:
Some dogs simply love socializing and see every other dog as a potential playmate. Their pulling and barking may be their way of saying, “Let’s go meet!” - Fear or Anxiety:
Other dogs may feel insecure around unfamiliar dogs. They react defensively by barking or lunging to keep the “threat” at a distance. - Protective Instincts:
Dogs can be protective of their owner or territory. When another dog approaches, they might feel the need to guard you. - Lack of Training:
If a dog has never been taught how to behave on a leash, it’s natural for them to become distracted and reactive to other dogs.
By identifying the root cause of your dog’s reactivity, you’ll be better prepared to address it with the right training approach.
The Foundation: Leash Manners & Focus Training
Before you can tackle reactivity, your dog should know basic leash manners and how to focus on you during walks.
1. Teach Loose-Leash Walking
Dogs that pull are harder to control when distractions appear. Practice walking calmly on a loose leash in quiet areas before adding distractions like other dogs. Reward your dog every time the leash stays loose.
2. The “Watch Me” Cue
Training your dog to look at you on command is one of the most powerful tools for redirecting attention.
- Hold a treat near your face and say “watch me.”
- When your dog makes eye contact, reward immediately.
- Practice at home, then in your yard, and finally during walks.
3. “Leave It” Command
“Leave it” isn’t just for food—this command can teach your dog to ignore other dogs as well. Start with simple objects and gradually use it when your dog notices another dog in the distance.
Step-by-Step Training Plan to Ignore Other Dogs
Here’s a structured approach you can use to help your dog remain calm around other dogs:
Step 1: Create Distance
Start at a distance where your dog notices the other dog but doesn’t react. This is called the threshold distance. For some dogs, it may be 50 feet; for others, it may be 10 feet.
If your dog reacts, increase the distance until they can remain calm.
Step 2: Redirect Attention
As soon as your dog notices another dog, use the “watch me” cue or call their name. The moment they look at you, reward with a high-value treat (like chicken or cheese).
This teaches your dog that ignoring other dogs and focusing on you brings rewards.
Step 3: Practice Calm Passing
Once your dog can stay calm at a distance, gradually decrease the space between your dog and others. Walk parallel to the other dog instead of head-on, as this feels less confrontational. Reward calm behavior consistently.
Step 4: Use Positive Reinforcement
Never punish barking or lunging—it can increase anxiety and make the problem worse. Instead, reward the behavior you want (calmness, focus, ignoring other dogs).
Step 5: Gradual Exposure
Consistency is key. Slowly expose your dog to more dogs, starting with one or two and working up to busier walking areas. Keep sessions short and positive.
Tools That Can Help
- Harness with Front Clip: A no-pull harness gives you better control than a collar.
- High-Value Treats: Use special rewards only for walks, so your dog associates calm behavior with good things.
- Clicker Training: A clicker can mark the exact moment your dog makes the right choice, speeding up learning.
WHAT TO AVOID
Don’t Yank the Leash: Pulling back harshly can increase frustration and create negative associations.
Don’t Let Them Greet Every Dog: Allowing constant greetings teaches your dog to expect it every time.
Don’t Punish Barking: Yelling or scolding often escalates reactivity instead of solving it.
Special Cases: When to Seek Help
Some dogs have deep-rooted fear, anxiety, or aggression issues that require more than basic training. If your dog shows intense reactivity—lunging aggressively, growling, snapping—it’s best to seek help from a certified dog trainer or behaviorist.
Tips for Long-Term Success
- Stay Consistent: Training is not a one-time event. Reinforce calm behavior every walk.
- Exercise Before Walks: A quick game of fetch or tug before walking can help burn off excess energy.
- Stay Calm Yourself: Dogs mirror our emotions. If you tense up when another dog approaches, your dog will sense it.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Even a few steps of calm behavior around another dog is progress worth rewarding.
Final Thoughts
Teaching your dog to ignore other dogs on walks is not about suppressing their personality—it’s about helping them stay calm, safe, and focused. With the right training, patience, and consistency, you’ll transform walks from chaotic to enjoyable.
Remember: distance, redirection, and positive reinforcement are your best tools. Start small, stay patient, and over time, your dog will learn that the best thing to do when another dog appears is to focus on you.
Peaceful walks are possible—with a little effort, you and your dog can enjoy stress-free adventures together.
