10/15/2026
Here are 5 reasons your dog might be reacting like this…
❌ They’re already over threshold before you realise it
By the time you notice the barking, lunging or pulling, their brain may already be in fight or flight mode. Reactivity isn’t usually the first sign of stress. It’s often what happens when they’ve already reached their limit.
❌ It could be frustration, not aggression
Many “reactive” dogs actually want to greet the other dog but can’t. Being restrained by the leash prevents them from doing what they naturally want to do, and that frustration can show up as barking, jumping and lunging.
❌ They haven’t learned how to cope at that distance yet
Dogs aren’t born knowing how to stay calm around other dogs, bikes or prams. If they haven’t been taught these skills at a distance where they can still think, you’re expecting them to do something they haven’t learned yet.
❌ Trigger stacking has built up throughout the day
The postie, the vacuum, missing a walk, then suddenly seeing a dog across the road. Every stressful event can add to the next one. So that “random” explosion might not be random at all. It could simply be the final straw.
❌ Genetics and breed can play a role
Some dogs are naturally more sensitive to movement and environmental triggers than others. That doesn’t mean you’ve failed at training. Their biology can influence how easily they react and how much management they may need long term.
Your dog isn’t broken. Once you understand what’s behind their reactions, you can start helping them 🧡
Save this for your next walk 🙌
