Many dogs become overly excited, anxious, or reactive when encountering other dogs on walks. Some pull toward other dogs out of excitement, while others may bark or lunge due to fear or territorial behavior. Training them to stay calm and focused when passing other dogs ensures safer, more enjoyable walks and improves their social skills.
1. Why Some Dogs React to Other Dogs on Walks
Dogs react differently when seeing another dog, and understanding their behavior helps you train them effectively.
1.1 Natural Excitement and Social Curiosity
✔ Friendly dogs want to greet and play, making it difficult for them to control their impulses.
✔ Puppies and young dogs often struggle with excitement management.
1.2 Fear, Insecurity, or Past Negative Experiences
✔ Some dogs bark or lunge out of fear, not aggression.
✔ Rescue dogs or those with limited socialization may react defensively.
✔ A past bad experience (being attacked or overwhelmed by another dog) can lead to reactivity.
1.3 Lack of Proper Leash Manners and Impulse Control
✔ Dogs that were never trained to walk calmly may pull or jump when seeing another dog.
✔ If your dog is used to playing off-leash, they may get frustrated when restrained by a leash.
Now that we understand the causes, let’s focus on how to train your dog to walk calmly past other dogs.
2. Teaching Your Dog to Stay Calm Around Other Dogs
The key to successful training is gradual exposure, redirection, and rewarding calm behavior.
2.1 Teach the “Look at Me” Command
✔ Step 1: Hold a treat near your face and say “Look at me.”
✔ Step 2: Reward your dog for maintaining eye contact.
✔ Step 3: Gradually increase the time they must hold eye contact.
✔ Step 4: Use this command when another dog approaches to keep their focus on you.
Why It Works: Redirecting focus prevents overreaction.
2.2 Reward Calm Behavior When Seeing Other Dogs
✔ If your dog notices another dog but remains calm, reward them before they react.
✔ Over time, they will associate calmness with positive reinforcement.
Tip: Always carry high-value treats (chicken, cheese) during walks to reinforce good behavior.
2.3 Keep a Comfortable Distance at First
✔ If your dog barks or pulls, increase the distance from the other dog.
✔ Gradually decrease the distance as they improve.
✔ Never force an interaction—let them observe calmly first.
2.4 Use the “Heel” Command for Better Control
✔ Teach “Heel” so your dog walks beside you instead of pulling ahead.
✔ Reward them when they stay in position, even near distractions.
3. Training Exercises to Help Your Dog Ignore Other Dogs
Once your dog understands basic focus commands, practice these structured exercises.
3.1 Parallel Walking with Another Dog
✔ Walk parallel to another dog at a safe distance.
✔ Gradually decrease the space between the two dogs as they remain calm.
✔ Reward them for focusing on you instead of the other dog.
This method teaches neutral behavior rather than excitement or fear.
3.2 “Pass and Reward” Method
✔ Walk toward another dog but change direction before they get too close.
✔ Reward your dog after successfully passing without pulling or barking.
✔ Repeat until they learn to ignore passing dogs calmly.
Why It Works: Your dog learns that passing dogs isn’t a big deal.
3.3 Exposure to Different Dogs Gradually
✔ Start with calm, well-behaved dogs before exposing them to more energetic or reactive dogs.
✔ If your dog remains calm, reward and continue walking.
✔ If they react, increase distance and try again later.
4. Managing Common Problems When Passing Other Dogs
Even well-trained dogs may get distracted by certain triggers. Here’s how to manage specific challenges:
4.1 If Your Dog Pulls Toward Another Dog
✔ Stop walking immediately—don’t let them drag you forward.
✔ Call them back to you using “Look at me” or “Heel.”
✔ Reward them only when they return to position calmly.
4.2 If Your Dog Barks or Lunges
✔ Increase the distance from the other dog.
✔ Use treats or a toy to redirect their focus.
✔ Reward them for quiet, relaxed behavior.
4.3 If Your Dog Gets Too Excited to Focus
✔ Take shorter, slower walks in low-distraction areas first.
✔ Use calming techniques (deep breathing, slow petting) before passing dogs.
✔ Walk in a zigzag pattern to prevent fixating on other dogs.
5. Preventing Reactivity in the Long Term
Once your dog learns to stay calm, maintain good habits to reinforce the behavior.
5.1 Use Daily Walks as Training Sessions
✔ Keep rewarding calm behavior even after they improve.
✔ Randomly practice “Look at me” and “Heel” on every walk.
5.2 Avoid Crowded Dog Areas Until Fully Trained
✔ Dog parks and high-traffic areas can be overwhelming for reactive dogs.
✔ Only introduce busier settings after they master calm walking.
5.3 Give Your Dog Enough Exercise and Mental Stimulation
✔ Many dogs react out of pent-up energy or boredom.
✔ Provide long walks, puzzle toys, and obedience training to keep their mind engaged.
6. What NOT to Do When Passing Other Dogs
🚫 Never Yank the Leash or Use Harsh Corrections
✔ Sudden leash jerks increase frustration and anxiety.
✔ Instead, redirect and reward calmness.
🚫 Don’t Allow Uncontrolled Greetings
✔ Letting dogs rush up to each other reinforces excitement and pulling.
✔ Instead, practice calm introductions when appropriate.
🚫 Don’t Expect Instant Results
✔ Training takes time and consistency.
✔ Some dogs may need weeks or months of practice.
7. When to Seek Professional Help
If your dog’s reactivity remains severe, a professional trainer can help.
🚨 Signs You May Need Extra Help:
✔ Extreme lunging, growling, or aggression toward other dogs.
✔ Severe fear reactions (shaking, hiding, refusing to walk).
✔ Training efforts are not improving behavior.
A certified dog trainer can create a customized training plan for your dog’s specific challenges.
8. Final Thoughts
Teaching your dog to walk calmly past other dogs requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. By using focus commands, controlled exposure, and rewarding good behavior, you can train your dog to stay relaxed and confident.
With regular practice, your walks will become stress-free, enjoyable, and more rewarding for both you and your furry friend!