Lunging to say hello isn't social—it's frustrated. Stop forcing greetings before your walk becomes a nightmare.
We’re told puppies must meet everyone at Tim Hortons. But constant interaction teaches them the world is a high-arousal playground, making them unable to focus on you.
When a dog expects to greet everyone, being held back by a leash causes massive frustration. This leads to barking, lunging, and a dog that can't settle in public.
True socialization is the ability to exist in a Shoppers Drug Mart parking lot or a crowded park without needing to interact. It’s peace, not play.
Every dog has a 'threshold.' If your dog is stiffening or ignoring treats 10 metres away from a trigger, you’re too close. Move back until they can think again.
Don't wait for a bark. Reward the split second your dog looks at a distraction and then looks back at you. This 'Auto-Watch' builds the habit of checking in.
Use pet-friendly big-box stores for controlled exposure. Wide aisles provide a safety buffer where you can practice neutrality away from the elements.
Start training from the back of your SUV. Let your dog watch the world pass by from their 'safe' zone. It’s the best way to build a calm mental state.
Don't let the -20°C weather kill your progress. Use covered parkades or indoor training to keep the 'ignore' muscle strong during long Canadian winters.
Surprised by a barking dog around the corner? Don't punish. Immediately cue a 'Let's Go' and walk away. Distance is the only thing that lowers their 'bucket.'
Retractable leads offer inconsistent tension and zero control. For neutrality, you need a fixed-length lead that allows for clear communication and safety.
Neutrality isn't about a boring dog; it's about a confident one. By rewarding disengagement, you transform a reactive pet into a composed companion.
Get the full Disengagement Protocol and our list of the best Canadian training spots to master the art of the calm walk.