It's one of the toughest challenges that you face when caring for a dog that's quickly triggered by events that you have no control over. Other dogs, certain people, animals (squirrels!), and noises are just a short list of potential triggers.
If this is a situation that you struggle with on a daily basis, then I'm guessing you've also been the target of well-meaning "experts" who flood you with unwanted advice that feels like blame and judgment.
"You should train that dog!"
"Just distract the dog with treats."
"Don't let that dog get away with pushing you around!"
"Dangerous dogs don't belong out in public!"
Taking your dog for a walk leaves you feeling embarrassed, ashamed, guilty, and discouraged. It robs you of the joy of your dog's company.
Let's look at why this happens and what you can do to improve things for your dog and yourself.
Distracting with treats might seem to be the most practical method. You may have heard online messages or seen videos about distracting a dog when he's triggered. However, in real life, this method won't regulate an over-aroused, over-threshold dog who is in a full fight/flight emotional state. And it's NOT because of any mistake or failure on your part. You are not to blame...You've just been given the wrong tool for the job.
If the only tool you have is a hammer, then everything looks like a nail.
Distraction is only one of the many tools you can use. If it's used improperly, however, it doesn't work.
Furthermore, the word Distraction is misleading. It hints at false promises about our ability to control another individual's emotions and behavior by offering food. There's more to it than that, don't you agree?
What's a better alternative?
The word I prefer is Interrupt. Think of it as a break in continuity, a pause that opens up other options.
An interruption lets you change the subject and lead the conversation in a new direction.
So how do you interrupt over-threshold behavior?
It's critical to understand that you have to prepare for the situation, and not in the situation. Your dog can't learn something new or use something she already knows when her nervous system is in high alert fight, flight, or freeze. So you must teach her that interruptions always result in something better happening. But she can learn this game only if she is relaxed and undisturbed by any triggers.
Practice changing the subject over small things that are neutral for your dog.
Do this instead of that...go this way instead of that way...play with this toy instead of that one...etc. You get the idea. Be creative and look for small opportunities to gently interrupt and change the subject. The key to success is to always make the new conversation more pleasant, more attractive, and more fun. You want your dog to enjoy interruptions because they predict receiving something she wants: your attention and love.
You've got this! Go for it!
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