FAQ

While reactivity can occur in any breed, herding and guarding breeds such as Border Collies, German Shepherds, and Belgian Malinois often show higher reactivity due to their alertness and sensitivity.

You should not punish, force interactions, ignore stress signals, or expose reactive dogs to triggers without training and proper distance.

There is no single most reactive dog breed, as reactivity largely depends on individual temperament, genetics, upbringing, and experiences.

Avoid punishment, forcing interactions, or exposing the dog to triggers before they’re ready—these actions can increase fear and worsen reactivity.

The 4 F's of dog behavior are Fight, Flight, Freeze, and Fawn—instinctual responses to fear or stress.

To train a reactive dog, use positive reinforcement techniques like desensitization, counter-conditioning, and management strategies to build calm behaviors over time.

The 3-3-3 rule is a general guideline to help dog owners understand how their new dog may adapt over time: 3 days to decompress, 3 weeks to learn the routine, and 3 months to feel at home.

Yes, reactivity in dogs can be significantly improved or trained out through behavior modification techniques like desensitization, counter-conditioning, and consistent management strategies.

Training a reactive dog involves managing their exposure to triggers, using positive reinforcement techniques like desensitization and counter-conditioning, and maintaining patience and consistency. Professional help may be necessary for severe cases.

Early signs of heartworm in dogs include mild coughing, fatigue after moderate activity, reluctance to exercise, decreased appetite, and weight loss.