Okay, not really, of course… But as sweet as your dog can be, sometimes it suddenly seems to turn into an aggressive monster. Do you recognize the situations below? Then you have a dog that displays reactive behavior—but don’t worry, there is something you can do about it!
The Reactive Dog Group Therapy Program is structured differently from our other courses. With our extensive experience in reactivity, we have developed a well-tailored program that aligns perfectly with the needs of a reactive dog and the essential information you need as their handler. This is an intensive course where you will begin working from home in the first few weeks.
During the initial weeks, we focus on reducing your dog’s stress, improving your trainer skills, and helping you reflect on all aspects of life with your dog to enhance their balance and stability. From home, you will access our online learning platform for the right foundation. Additionally, you will attend interactive theory sessions without your dog at Van Stal and participate in our Q&A lessons. This comprehensive preparation ensures that both you and your dog are ready for the practical sessions. Your dog must be in the best possible physical and mental state to optimize learning during these sessions.
The practical lessons are designed to provide both personal training time with your dog under the close guidance of our instructors and the opportunity to observe other participants. Observing body language and how fellow handlers work with their dogs is incredibly valuable for becoming a better handler yourself.
Throughout the course, we create a highly safe environment where you and your dog can gain positive learning experiences by gradually increasing exposure to stimuli. Only through positive experiences can reactivity decrease.
Our instructors have extensive experience with reactive behavior, both personally and professionally. We understand better than anyone that living with a reactive dog can be emotionally challenging and vulnerable. That’s why we prioritize creating a calm and safe space for both humans and dogs, ensuring that learning experiences are positive and empowering.
The training is built up gradually: we first practice with dummy dogs before introducing real dogs step by step into the sessions. If we were to start immediately with a large group of real dogs, it would be too overwhelming and could have the opposite effect.
It brings us immense joy to see how many dogs and their owners regain confidence and enjoy their walks together thanks to this course. Every success story makes our work even more meaningful!
Unsure if this course is the right fit for you and your dog? Send an email to honden@vanstal.nl or use our contact form—we’re happy to help!
