If they bark or lunge at every dog they see, you've been taught socialisation all wrong. Here's how to fix it.
Letting your pup greet every dog in Phoenix Park isn't socialisation. You're just training them to expect a party every time they see a tail.
When a dog can't reach that 'friend' on a lead, excitement turns into frustration. That frustration is what causes the barking and spinning.
True socialisation is the ability to see a child on a scooter or a cyclist and decide they simply aren't worth the attention. It's calm indifference.
80% of your outings should involve zero interaction. Sit on a bench at the local GAA pitch and just watch the world go by. Don't touch, just look.
When your dog notices a distraction, wait for the second they look back at you. Mark it with a 'Yes!' and reward them immediately. You're buying their focus.
Head to a pet-friendly shop like Woodie's. It's a perfect controlled environment to practice ignoring the noise while staying on a loose lead.
If your dog is already barking, you're too close. Move back until they can think again. Distance is the best tool in your training kit.
Can your dog lie under a table while the match is on? That’s elite neutrality. Start in quiet cafes before hitting the busy weekend spots.
A windy day in Meath plus a field of sheep equals a higher stress baseline. If the environment is loud, adjust your distance and expectations.
When someone asks if their dog can 'say hello,' just say: 'Sorry, we're in training.' Protect your dog's progress and their peace.
It's about being pro-calm. A neutral dog is a dog that can go anywhere, from the Slieve Blooms to a busy Dublin cafe. That is true freedom.
Get the full 'Watch and Dismiss' protocol and the exact steps to handle reactive moments.