Reactivity training isn’t just about stopping barking or lunging - it’s about understanding how your dog’s brain learns, and knowing exactly when to give them space to make a choice… and when to step in and support them.

In this episode we break down one of the most misunderstood parts of reactive dog training: the balance between choice-based disengagement and preventative management. If you’ve ever wondered whether you should let your dog ‘look then look away’ or whether you should interrupt, block, or move them away, this episode will finally give you clear answers, rooted in real behavioural science.

You’ll walk away understanding the brain pathways, the emotional processes, and the learning outcomes behind each approach, and you’ll know exactly how to choose the right strategy for your dog in your moment.

Whether your dog is early in their training journey or already developing self-regulation skills, this episode will help you train with confidence, nuance, compassion and success.

Check out my full Reactivity Rehabilitation Programme here. 👈

• Why a dog’s ability to ‘choose calm’ depends on specific neurological pathways
• How the prefrontal cortex and amygdala influence reactive behaviours
• The benefits of voluntary disengagement (and when it becomes counterproductive)
• How management prevents rehearsal… and why rehearsal matters so much
• How to assess your dog’s arousal level in real time so you always choose the right strategy
• When to let your dog look, observe, and process… and when stepping in is the kindest option
• Why both strategies are essential - and how to blend them seamlessly on the same walk
• How to build a long-term, resilient, regulated dog who can genuinely cope in the real world

💻 Want to dive deeper into transforming your dog’s behaviour with science-backed strategies that actually work? Check out my digital training products, freebies and online courses at www.listendogtraining.com

📱 Let’s connect! Follow me on Instagram and TikTok → @‌listendogtraining

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