07/12/2026
ARES, the 1 year old German Shepherd, is a graduate of our 3 Week Reactivity board & train program! 🐕
Ares was a textbook case of a dog who had been overwhelmed by dog parks and doggy daycare paired with his already excitable genetics / personality.
His owners (understandably!) knew that GSDs could have a tendency toward reactivity, and had heard that socialization was imperative.
However, and this is the case with many of our reactive dogs, though Ares looked like he was having a blast & didn’t want to leave anytime he was picked up, it created an associated feeling of overexcitement OR don’t-come-near-my-space reactivity, any time they would see another dog on walks or in public.
Our focus during his stay was EXPOSURE, rather than socialization. We worked first to build his impulse control via obedience training, then gradual exposure to new sights and sounds, leading to existing around other dogs calmly - helping to rewire his brain.
This is why in our group classes you won’t catch us letting dogs/puppies play. From the jump, we want them to see dogs as neutral, and not to create an immediate association with overexcitement and overwhelm.
The exception are introductions to dogs they may have long term relationships with throughout their lives.
Ares has the best family who is committed to reversing the feelings he has developed towards dogs, and are excited to ENJOY their outings together with his new fabulous leash walk and outing skills. CONGRATS to ARES & family! 🐾🎊
