Dog Reactive Group

Dog Reactive Group is not a typical obedience class. This is intensive behaviour modification for dogs who lunge, bark, pull, or show aggressive displays towards other dogs on leash. If walks have become stressful, unpredictable, or something you avoid entirely because of your dog's reactivity, this class is designed to help.

Reactivity doesn't improve on its own. It escalates. The longer your dog practices the behaviour, the more ingrained it becomes. This class interrupts that pattern by teaching your dog a new way to respond when they see another dog.

We use controlled exposure at safe distances where your dog can stay below their reaction threshold. Over the course of six weeks, we gradually decrease distance, increase duration, and proof behaviour in different contexts. Your dog learns that other dogs are not a threat, that calm behaviour is rewarded, and that you are in control of the situation.

You'll also learn foundation obedience commands that give you tools to redirect your dog's focus before they react. Sit, down, place, and stay become your management strategies. We teach you how to read your dog's body language, recognize early warning signs, and intervene before a full reaction occurs.

This class requires honesty, consistency, and a willingness to follow through with homework between sessions. Progress is gradual, not instant. Some dogs will become neutral around other dogs. Others will improve significantly but still require management in high-distraction environments. We'll be honest about what's realistic for your dog.

This class is not appropriate for dogs with severe aggression towards people, dogs with bite history towards humans, or dogs that cannot be safely managed in a group setting. An assessment is required before enrollment to ensure this program is the right fit.

Program Length: 6 weeks, one session per week
Class Size: Maximum 4-5 dogs
Age Range: 5+ months old
Investment: $841.85 (includes HST)
Prerequisite: Assessment required before enrollment

What your dog will learn:

• Controlled desensitization to dog triggers
• Threshold and emotional regulation training
• Foundation obedience under distraction
• Impulse control and focus redirection
• Real-world exposure in graduated stages
• Handler skills for managing reactive behaviour

Important: This class is for dogs reactive to other dogs only. Not appropriate for dogs with aggression towards people or bite history.

What Makes Our Group Classes Effective

Small Class Sizes
We never exceed 4-5 dogs per class. This ensures every dog gets individual attention, trainers can coach each handler effectively, and the environment stays controlled and safe.

Built-In Distraction Work
Other dogs in class provide the exact distractions your dog will face in real life. Your dog learns to obey commands regardless of what's happening around them.

Progressive Curriculum
Each week builds on the last. We don't repeat the same exercises for six weeks. We progress systematically towards reliable, real-world obedience.

Professional Trainers
Our trainers have years of experience working with dogs of all breeds, ages, and temperaments. You're not learning from a pet owner who took a weekend course. You're learning from professionals who do this every day.

Accountability and Support
Weekly sessions keep you consistent. You'll have homework, clear goals, and a support system of other owners working through the same challenges.

Real-Time Feedback
Trainers observe your handling in real-time and provide immediate corrections. You'll learn proper timing, technique, and how to read your dog's body language.

What to Bring to Class

Required items:

• Your dog's training collar (prong collar, slip lead, or flat collar as recommended)
• 6-foot leash (no retractable leashes)
• High-value treats or food rewards
• Water bowl and water for your dog
• Poop bags

Training tools can be purchased at the Noble K9 store if you don't already have them.

Class Policies

Vaccinations:

• All dogs must be current on rabies, distemper, parvo, and bordetella
• Tick medication required if in season
• Proof of vaccinations required before first class

Safety:

• Dogs must be under control at all times
• Trainers reserve the right to remove dogs that cannot participate safely
• Owners are responsible for their dog's behaviour and any incidents

Attendance:

• Consistent attendance is critical for progress
• Missed classes can be made up privately for an additional fee
• If you miss more than 2 classes, you may need to repeat the program

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