1. Identifying Leash Reactive Behaviors
– When walking your foster dog, be aware of behaviors such as:
– Lunging
– Pulling
– Whining
– Barking
– Growling
– Snapping or biting

2. Strategies for Managing Reactivity
– Preparation: Before every walk, fill your pockets or a bag with delicious treats.
– Walking Tools: Use a walking tool that your dog responds well to; this could be a specific type of leash or harness.

3. Training Exercises
– Teaching “Look”:
– Train your dog to focus on your face by holding a treat next to your eye or on your nose.
– Command your dog to “look.” When they do, say YES! and give the treat.
– Begin practices indoors, then progress to outdoor walks without other dogs present.

4. Gradual Exposure
– Avoid encounters with other dogs for the first week at home. During this time, practice the “look” exercises frequently during walks.
– Guide your dog by moving the treat in front of their mouth, encouraging movement with you. Then, ask your dog to sit.

5. Handling Encounters with Other Dogs
– When you first see another dog:
– Use treats to lure your dog away, continuing to walk even if they are not reactive initially.
– If your dog remains calm, ask them to look at you and sit, then reward with praise and a treat.

6. Adjusting Distance
– If your dog reacts to every dog encountered, you may be too close for their comfort. Increase the distance from other dogs to reduce reactivity.