Class Description

This class is geared towards both exuberant and fearful reactivity. 
 
Is your dog’s reactivity causing stress or difficulty during outings? Join us for this specialized class designed to help you understand how to help your canine companion improve reactivity and build trust. Understanding your dog on a higher level will prepare you to handle a variety of situations when out for a walk with your dog.  See FAQ at the bottom of this page "requirements" for the description of Reactivity vs. Aggression.

Instructor:  Leah Pacitto
​Cost:  $185.00 for 4 weeks (1 hour lesson)

Class Structure

Our experienced trainers will guide you and your dog through:
  • A formula for practical use
  • Examples in action
  • Troubleshooting strategies to manage and modify your dog’s behavior. 

​Our classes are conducted in a supportive and non-judgmental environment, where both you and your dog can learn and grow together. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, we can help your dog become a calmer, more confident, and happier companion.

Topics Covered

We will cover:
  • Desensitization and Counterconditioning: Gradually expose your dog to their triggers in a controlled and positive manner, helping them develop more appropriate responses and associations.
  • Focus and Engagement: Improve your dog's ability to focus on you and respond to cues, in the presence of triggers, through engaging and interactive training exercises.
  • Management Strategies: Implement practical management strategies and tools to prevent or minimize reactive episodes while working on behavior modification.
  • Building Trust: Boost your dog's trust in you by being a confident leader.
  • Owner Education and Support: Equip you with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage and support your reactive dog, both inside and outside of class.
  • Window and Yard Barking:  How to manage and improve these behaviors.

Class Schedule​

To see available class dates, please register an account with us by clicking the registration button.  If you don't see a date that works for you, please add your name to our waitlist.

FAQ's

WHAT IF I MISS A CLASS?
There are no make up classes for any missed classes.  If your dog is sick or cannot attend class, we recommend that you come without your dog.  If you are sick or cannot attend, Zoom is offered with advanced notice, but cannot be guaranteed.  ​Follow up emails are sent after each class for your review.
What are the requirements to register for this class?
  • Non-aggressive dogs - see below.
  • Pre-registration. 
  • Proof of vaccination for DISTEMPER/PARVO COMBO booster and RABIES. A detailed receipt from the vet is acceptable
  • All necessary paperwork required by Dog Gone Good Dog Training prior to your first class.​​​

Dog reactivity and dog aggression are both behavioral issues that involve negative reactions towards other dogs, but they differ in intensity and underlying motivations.  Understanding the underlying motivations and triggers is essential for effectively managing and addressing these behavioral issues in dogs.
 
  1. Dog Reactivity:
    • Definition: Dog reactivity refers to a heightened response or sensitivity that a dog exhibits when encountering other dogs. This reaction can manifest as barking, lunging, whining, or pulling on the leash.
    • Trigger: Reactivity can be triggered by various stimuli, such as the sight, sound, or smell of other dogs, or even specific environments.
    • Motivation: Reactivity often stems from fear, anxiety, frustration, or overstimulation rather than a desire to harm. The reactive dog may feel threatened or uncomfortable in certain social situations.
    • Behavioral Context: Reactivity may occur on or off-leash, and the dog might display signs of distress or discomfort before reacting.
    • Treatment: Managing reactivity involves desensitization and counterconditioning techniques, as well as providing the dog with a sense of safety and security in challenging situations.
  2. Dog Aggression:
    • Definition: Dog aggression involves overtly aggressive behaviors directed towards other dogs, with the intention to cause harm.
    • Trigger: Aggression can be triggered by various factors, such as resource guarding, territoriality, fear, or lack of socialization.
    • Motivation: Aggression often arises from territoriality, or a perceived threat to the dog's safety or resources. It can also be a learned behavior reinforced by previous successful aggressive encounters.
    • Behavioral Context: Aggression typically involves direct confrontations, such as growling, snarling, snapping, or biting, and may occur in a variety of contexts, including on walks, in the home, or at dog parks.
    • Treatment: Treating aggression requires a comprehensive approach, including behavior modification techniques, positive reinforcement training, and addressing any underlying issues such as fear or anxiety. Professional intervention may be necessary to ensure safety and success.
when can I sign up for THIS class?
Take a look at our schedule and see what class works best with your schedule.  If you do not see one, please add your name to the wait list.  
Where is this class held?
​All classes are held at the Montgomery County 4H Center, located at 1015 Bridge Road (Route 113), Collegeville, PA 19426.  The entrance to the studio is on the side of the building adjacent to the pavilions.  Look for the white numbers on the building D16. The studio is not wheelchair accessible.
WHO CAN COME TO TRAINING CLASS?
Everyone is welcome to attend classes and take turns working with the dog.  We ask that you do not alternate handlers each week, and have at least one consistent person attending all classes.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I CLICK THE REGISTRATION BUTTON?
When you click the registration button, you will be redirected to our ProPet scheduling software where you can create or access your account, view the training schedules, and provide online payment.  

NOTE:  IF THE CLASS IS FILLED, IT WILL NOT APPEAR ON THE LISTING TO REGISTER.   If you are having difficulties registering, please email Shaun at [email protected].​​

Pre-payment is required to guarantee your place in class. We accept credit cards, cash or check. A nominal transaction fee of 3% is added on all credit card transactions.  Payments can be mailed to Dog Gone Good Dog Training, Montgomery County 4H Center, 1015 Bridge Rd., Ste. I, Collegeville, PA 19426.​​​
what should I bring to class?
Harness, 6 foot leash, treat pouch & treats, poop bags, a non-squeaky toy, interactive food toy or bone to keep your dog busy.  
It is a good idea to bring a variety of treats/food items - bronze, silver and gold.  The treats/food that you are using at home may not be high enough value to use in class.

Leash Reactivity

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