Reactive Dog Training
We understand the emotional journey of living with a reactive dog. The unpredictability of everyday situations can amplify the stress and constant worry that your dog could react at any moment. Reactivity is a common behavior issue, and it’s one we specialize in! We’ve helped many owners navigate this challenge, and we’re here to support you in overcoming it too.
Reactive Dog Class Tier I
Wednesdays at 5:30 PM & 7:00 PM
Our class is designed for dogs that are reactive around strangers, other dogs or new situations – “Triggers.” This course will emphasize improving your communication skills with your dog to redirect and manage your dog’s reactive behavior when encountering these difficulties by using positive reinforcement training to reinforce an alternate, better, behavior.
This class will focus on altering the reactions from both ends of the leash. We humans need this class just as much as our dogs.
Upon enrollment you will be required to complete a behavior questionnaire outlining your concerns. Class size is limited to 4 dogs, 6 months of age and up. No dangerous human or canine aggression. We know group class sounds scary when you have a reactive dog, but this class is heavily managed. By the end of class student dogs will see each other, but will never interact.
Owner will be required to provide special equipment (treats, any recommended training tools such as a Gentle Leader, Halti, Harness or Muzzle).
Reactive Dog Class Tier II
Saturdays at 11:30 AM (rotating schedule)
Reactive Tier II is designed to help you and your reactive dog begin to experience more stimuli. The goal of this class to help you better integrate into a regular group class and to teach you how to continue to provide the information to your dog to be successful during the presence of the “triggers” at a higher level.
Pre-requisite: you must have completed Reactive Tier I, with instructor approval, to move into the Tier II class.
Christa B.
client
When we first came to Family Dog Training, my dog was 2.5 years old and struggling with reactivity, despite being incredibly well-trained in obedience, and our world had become so small, as we attempted to avoid triggers. I wanted to learn a more positive approach that would help shift how he felt about his triggers, and obtain the skills for both of us to confidently experience more adventures together.
We started with Reactive Dog I & II, and ended up taking nearly every class they offer. Kelly and her team are incredibly skilled at reading dog body language, managing sensitive personalities, and creating a space where both dogs and humans can feel successful. It was such a gift to be able to participate in group classes – something we previously would not have been candidates for.
Jupiter has made real progress—he’s much more comfortable around triggers, and I’m more confident navigating those moments when they happen. And the fact that he now fully trusts Kelly? That’s no small thing. She’s officially part of his very exclusive “inner circle.” I couldn’t be more grateful for the thoughtful guidance, patience, and care we’ve received here.
Ashley W.
client
When I adopted Doug, I quickly realized he struggled with leash reactivity. After a tough incident at the vet, I knew we needed help. Family Dog Training & Behavioral Center came highly recommended, and I’m so grateful we found them.
Doug couldn’t even make it to the end of our driveway without pulling so hard it hurt my back. Since our neighborhood is full of dogs, Kelly suggested we train in a quiet cemetery. It worked perfectly. We started small, walking just a short distance at a time, and learned to respect Doug’s limits.
What surprised me most was realizing I needed to respect my own limits, too. Some days were overwhelming, but the FDTC team was patient, supportive, and never judgmental. They made me feel seen and understood.
This journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s been worth it. Now Doug and I enjoy multiple walks a day, and our bond is stronger than ever.
Training doesn’t end when class ends. Every walk is a chance to grow. If you’re working with a reactive dog, be kind to both of you. Thanks to Family Dog Training, we’re not just managing — we’re thriving.
Wendy G.
client
We turned to Family Dog Training and Behavioral Center for help with our reactive dog, Murphy, also known as “The Red Devil.” Though calm and sweet at home, Murphy had serious food aggression, resource guarding, and extreme reactivity on walks. Managing him and our other large dog became stressful and overwhelming.
After seeing another dog’s success story on Facebook, we enrolled Murphy in Reactive Dog Classes Tier I and II. The transformation was incredible. I learned how to manage his behavior with positive, consistent training. Over time, Murphy went from lunging and barking at triggers to calmly looking at me for direction. He now walks past barking dogs without reacting.
The training also helped at home. Murphy can now relax in the backyard and stay calm around neighbors and noises. Kelly and her team were knowledgeable, professional, and supportive. They provided clear guidance, helpful resources, and a structured environment that made a real difference.
Investing in this training changed our lives. Eleven months later, I am still amazed by Murphy’s progress. Choosing Family Dog Training and Behavioral Center was the best decision I have ever made for my dogs.
