Teaching “Let’s go!” for Reactive Dogs (Part 4)

 Congratulations! You’ve made it to the final part of the “Let’s go!” training series for reactive dogs.   In Part 1, we started to build a “Let’s go” behavior on cue in the house and in the backyard.  In Part 2, we added in food or toy distractions, and asked your dog to move away from those on the “Let’s go!” cue. In Part 3, we started working on the sidewalk without any dogs around. Now, in Part 4, you’ll start working with your dog around other dogs. 

Working around dogs is usually the most difficult part of this training, and where you’ll spend the most time. You’ll need to find places to work where your dog can train happily (and is "below threshold" for reacting).  Depending on where you live, you might need to get creative. A wide open park where you can see dogs from a great distance can be a good option. Working right in front of your house could be perfect if you live in a quiet neighborhood. If you live in a busy city with lots of dogs always passing by, you could alternate working indoors at a window overlooking the street, with training in a quiet area you drive to. 

In the accompanying video, you’ll see an example of working right in front of a house, so that you always have an easy retreat option (into the house.)