Peace of Mind Blog
The Human Side of Living With A Reactive or Aggressive Dog
If you share your life with a reactive or aggressive dog, you’re not alone, and you’re certainly not a bad dog owner. But it can feel that way.
Maybe you’ve been judged at the park, avoided by neighbors, or been offered unsolicited advice from strangers who don’t understand what you’re dealing with. Living with a reactive dog can be isolating, emotionally exhausting, and at times, heartbreaking.
Understanding What Truly Motivates Your Dog
All too often, I see well-meaning dog owners trying to do the right thing by rewarding their dogs for displaying desired behaviors. However, the execution sometimes misses the mark. One common mistake is offering a treat when the dog isn't motivated by food in that moment. You may find yourself literally shoving a treat into your dog’s mouth while they’re distracted, excited, or simply uninterested. If you’re having to force the food, it’s a clear sign that it’s not the reward your dog truly wants or needs right then.
🐾 When Rescuing Doesn’t Stick: Understanding Dog Rescue Returns and Why Training Matters
Every dog rescue story starts with hope. A new beginning. A chance to give a dog the life they deserve. But sometimes, despite best intentions, things don’t go as planned - and dogs are returned to shelters or rescues.
It’s a tough topic, but it deserves honest conversation. Because in the middle of it all is the dog, and what’s best for them must come first.
Self-Regulation in Dogs - Why It Matters and How to Start
If you’ve ever felt frustrated by your dog’s inability to pause—whether it’s barking at the window, jumping the second you grab the leash, or exploding with excitement when you walk through the door - you’re not alone. Many pet guardians, especially those living with reactive dogs, struggle with what’s really a lack of one key skill: self-regulation.
The good news? Self-regulation is something we can help our dogs build—and it doesn’t require hours of dedicated training time. It starts with small, intentional moments woven into everyday life.