My dog pulls, lunges, and barks on leash. How to fix reactivity?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Scottish Terrier | Female | spayed | 10 months and 24 days old | 18 lbs
I have 2 Scotties and they couldn't be more different. My male was easily corrected for this type of behavior when he was a pup (now 3 yr). I can not get my 11 mo old female to stop pulling on the leash, lunging at people running by, cars. She also barks a lot at other dogs although she plays well with dogs she has met. She does well in training classes but doesn't transfer over to real life.
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on January 14th, 2017
Using a Gentle Leader will help prevent her from pulling and lunging on the leash. You are going to have to do some training to try and solve this problem. First, you should teach her the "watch me" command so that you can get her attention when you needed. Next you should take her in situations that have very few distractions and use the watch me command when you see something that will possibly distract her. Once she makes progress in those situations, you can gradually increase to busier environments. Hopefully, with some patience and time you can get this problem under control. If not, you may need to get the help of a professional trainer. http://www.pet360.com/product/50230/petsafe-gentle-leader-headcollar-for-dogs http://www.abetterdog4u.com/articles/teaching_watch_me.htm https://www.animalhumanesociety.org/training/managing-leash-reactive-dog
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Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on July 31st, 2018
Once she is on the leash it works like an extension of you her owner. This gives her extra security and it makes her super courageous knowing that she has you in the background. This may be hard to fix. You could start with finding a way to easily distract her. Every time you see another dog while walking her, distract her before she can start with her aggressive behavior. She needs to learn the word "NO". Also do a puppy behavior class with Luna or contact a trainer.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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