Reactivity: Click to Calm-Virtual Class

Event Phone: 510 845-7735, ext 215

About the Class

Your dog’s personality traits, early experiences, lack of proper exposures, home environment, training and learning experiences all affect those behaviors we call leash reactivity.  All reactive responses are not aggressive but can make daily life difficult on both ends of the leash.

Dogs that exhibit reactive and aggressive behaviors toward dogs and people need careful, methodical work to change those behaviors and replace them with appropriate responses.  The first and most important part of that work is preventing exposure to events that trigger them.  The second part of the work is to build a group of alternate behaviors that are strong, resilient and dependable.

For those two reasons, this class is taught in a virtual format so that you can learn and work at home, in an environment that promotes learning for both you and your dog.  As you become adept at handling your dog and your dog has those well-built alternatives, you can introduce distractions and triggers.

This class will be a deep dive into training for both of you and will include video assignments for you to complete so you can observe yourself and your dog.

This is a 5 week  behavior modification class that focuses on observation, management, techniques and handling.  Learn how to create tight learning loops and become fluent in using the routines and principles taught in class.  Each class session will have 3 behaviors for you to build and video.  The instructor will review your videos and give you personal  feedback.  At the end of the class, you will have 12 alternative behaviors and a responsive dog (if you do the work).

It takes commitment and skill to change strong, instinctive behaviors so we immerse you and your dog in helpful techniques and routines.

This class will meet every 2 weeks to give student teams time to condition behaviors and produce videos.

Class Requirements

The best candidates for this class are dogs with a history of reacting badly to dogs either on or off leash. Reactivity includes hyper-vigilance, lunging, and a general inability to control themselves.  Handlers should be prepared to work with their dogs daily, following the protocols taught during the class sessions.

We will use clicker/marker training in this class.

You must complete the “Dogs Reacting” questionnaire before taking this class. Download the form here:  Send to trainthebay@berkeleyhumane.org with the subject line DWA: https://berkeleyhumane.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/DWA_CLASS_QUESTIONNAIRE-rev-4-23.docx

Don’t see a class that works for your schedule? Contact Train the Bay to get on a waitlist!