Specialized training

Reactive Dog Class

Practical skills for dogs who bark, lunge, or become overwhelmed by other dogs, people, or changes in their environment while on leash.

Class currently unavailable · Free video program available below

Start here

Understanding leash reactivity

A reactive dog may bark, growl, pull, or lunge when something appears on a walk. Some reactive dogs socialize comfortably off leash; others need a more individual plan. The first goal is not to force an interaction. It is to understand the trigger, reduce stress, and give both dog and handler safer choices.

This class is not a fit for every concern

Contact Jollytails before choosing a program if your primary concern is resource guarding, fighting between dogs in the home, visitor-only behaviour, serious bite history, or aggression that has caused injury. An individual professional may be more appropriate.

The program

Build calm, confidence, and useful alternatives

Understand the cause

Learn how fear, frustration, stress, distance, and past learning can affect behaviour on leash.

Manage safely

Use distance, visual barriers, route planning, and emergency exit skills before a dog is over threshold.

Reward calm attention

Teach check-ins and alternative behaviours that are easier to use around gradually introduced distractions.

Practice in stages

Begin in a controlled indoor setting, progress to secure outdoor practice, and then apply the skills to real-life walks.

Class format

Program structure

The program begins with an owner-only orientation, followed by six one-hour sessions. Small working groups allow plenty of space between dogs, while observation spots give people access to the teaching without bringing a dog.

Working spotFour dogs practiced during class with their handlers.
Observation spotUp to four people attended without a dog to learn the program.

$400 for a working spot and $100 for an observation spot, plus HST.

Watch free

The Leash Reactivity Blueprint

The complete Jollytails video program remains available on YouTube. It follows real dogs and handlers through management, foundation skills, and structured practice.