Quick Answer: Spot the other dog before your dog does and increase distance proactively. Get your dog's attention with a high-value treat before they fixate. Reward any calm glance toward the other dog that doesn't involve pulling or vocalizing. A front-clip harness prevents the explosive forward lunge by redirecting sideways. Over many sessions at gradually decreasing distance, most dogs improve substantially.
The Distance Principle
Work below threshold — the distance at which your dog notices the other dog without losing their mind. This is your training zone. Above threshold, the dog is too aroused to learn or respond. Find that distance and work just below it, gradually decreasing as tolerance builds.
What To Avoid
- Tight leash in anticipation — this communicates tension and escalates arousal
- Leash corrections — increase anxiety and reactivity over time
- Punishment — makes the association with other dogs worse, not better
Related Questions
- Stop pulling toward other dogs
- Why does my dog bark at dogs on walks?
- How to get a dog to like other dogs
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