30/05/2026
Common things that can lead to reactivity 👇🐕
Reactivity usually isn’t caused by one moment — it’s built through repeated experiences and learning patterns over time.
🐾 Not exposing a puppy to the world within the first 16 weeks (critical period)
Early life is when puppies are most open to new experiences. During this window, their brain is rapidly learning what is “normal” and safe.
If they don’t get calm, positive exposure to everyday sights, sounds, people, dogs, surfaces, and environments during this time, the world can feel more unpredictable later on.
That doesn’t mean it’s “too late” after 16 weeks — but it does mean you may need more structured, gradual confidence-building later.
🐾 Not doing regular walks or structured outings
Without consistent exposure, dogs don’t learn how to process the environment and settle in it.
🐾 Meeting every dog they see
This creates expectation: “every dog = interaction”. When that doesn’t happen, frustration builds.
🐾 On-leash socialising
Leads restrict natural communication and can create tension, pressure, or awkward interactions.
🐾 Going to parks only for dog play
If every outing equals high arousal play, dogs don’t learn neutrality around others — just excitement.
🐾 Over-protecting or avoiding the world
While well-intentioned, avoiding everything can increase sensitivity instead of building confidence.
The goal isn’t less socialisation — it’s better socialisation 💛
Calm exposure, neutral experiences, and learning that other dogs don’t always mean interaction.
A steady dog is built, not guessed 🐾
