Ep. 23 Live on IG - Extinguish Reactivity & Crating as a Non- Negotiable

Apologies for the audio, this was recording live on Instagram outside!

In this episode, we dive deep into extinguishing reactivity in dogs—specifically addressing the steps I take with owners and why I’ve shifted my approach over the years. Reactivity is much like addiction, where the behavior becomes highly reinforcing for the dog, making it harder to break the habit. I discuss why creating a "detox phase" is essential for reactive dogs, and how physical management, like crate training, can help stop the rehearsal of impulsive behaviors.

We'll cover:

• Why reactivity is like addiction for dogs
• The importance of physical management in the early stages of training
• My shift from a hands-off to a more structured approach with crates
• The mistakes I’ve seen when clients avoid crate training and how it prolongs the behavior
• How to avoid allowing your dog to practice undesirable behaviors when you're not home

If you’re struggling with a reactive dog, this episode will give you actionable steps to create long-term change, with minimal management needed down the road. Let’s get into it!

Need help with your dog? Find out more information at ⁠Packleaderhelp.com⁠ and follow us on Instagram and at ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/packleaderhelp⁠

Brianna is an expert dog behavior consultant located in Alexandria, VA. She has has been working with dogs with severe behavioral issues for the past 11 years. She is the behavior expert that veterinarians and other trainers recommend when their client's dogs have been recommended to be put down, or on life long medication. She work's with aggression issues, puppies, severe anxiety, fear, separation anxiety, over excitement, and any behavioral issue in between. For more info, click ⁠⁠https://www.packleaderhelp.com/⁠