13/10/2026
Before you start trying to fix your dog’s reactive behaviour, ask yourself this: are their needs actually being met? Particularly if they’re expressing strong feelings towards certain triggers, their walks and exposure to the things they need might be reduced.
So before tackling specific reactivity behaviours, I’m always looking at their routine and fulfilment. What does your dog love to do? Sniff, chase, tug, retrieve, search, solve problems? What were they bred to do, what does that individual thrive off and how can you give them appropriate outlets for those instincts in everyday life?
Fulfilment isn’t about exhausting your dog or keeping them constantly entertained. It’s about giving them the right balance of mental and physical activity, opportunities to use their natural instincts, and also time to simply slow down.
And if you’re struggling with reactivity, this is a really important place to start.
It won’t magically fix everything, and it doesn’t replace specific training. But fulfilling what your dog needs mentally and physically is a must before any trigger-specific work.
Don’t just focus on the behaviour you want to change. Look at the bigger picture of your dog’s life.
What does your dog absolutely LOVE doing? I’d love to know. 👇
