Tired of Saying ‘Leave It’?

Imagine having to tell your dog to "leave it" every time they find something on the ground—that would be exhausting for you and frustrating for your dog.
Instead, we focus on teaching automatic leave-its so your dog learns to make better choices on their own. That way, you can both enjoy the walk without constant interruptions.

Be Proactive, Not Reactive: The Key to Better Behavior with Your Dog

When it comes to teaching and training dogs, success depends on being proactive, not reactive. Many dog owners unintentionally wait for unwanted behavior to happen before responding, but by that point, it’s often too late. The dog has already practiced the behavior, and now both human and dog are reacting to the situation rather than thoughtfully navigating it.

Let’s break down what being reactive looks like and how shifting to a proactive approach can change everything.

What Does Reactivity Look Like?

Reactivity in training typically follows this cycle:

• A trigger causes the dog to react (bark, lunge, jump, etc.).

• The owner notices and responds by correcting, pulling the dog away, or giving hurried commands.

• The dog is too overstimulated to listen, and the owner becomes more frustrated.

• Now both dog and human are reactive, and tension escalates—for everyone involved.

This common pattern results in chaos and stress, and it rarely leads to learning.

What Does Being Proactive Look Like?

Being proactive means anticipating your dog’s triggers and guiding them before they react. Here’s how that might play out:

• You spot a potential trigger (e.g., another dog approaching).

• You ask your dog for an incompatible behavior, something they can't do while also reacting—like searching for treats that have been scattered on the ground.

• You reward that calm, appropriate behavior.

• Over time, your dog begins to learn: “Seeing another dog means a buffet will be tossed on the ground.”

This is how we teach dogs to think before they react. It’s a learned habit—and it starts with us.

A Real-Life Example: The UPS Truck

Let’s compare a reactive and a proactive response: READ MORE.

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