Dogs · by Isha Menon · 2026-09-25

reactivity class or private trainer first for a dog that lunges at joggers?

2-year-old shepherd mix. Good with known people, fine in the house, but outdoor movement makes his brain leave his body. Shelter suggested a class. Friend says private sessions first so he isn't over threshold the whole time. Budget probably allows one route to start, not both.

29 sparks · 5 comments

Comments

Urban River · 8 likes

Ask the class how much distance they use and what happens when a dog goes over threshold. Their answer will tell you a lot.

Noé Petit · 2 likes

A really good reactive class can be great, but the keyword there is really good.

Noor Janssens · 2 likes

Budget-wise, even 2-3 private sessions can set you up better than weeks of guessing.

Elif Yılmaz · 0 likes

I started private, then graduated to class once we had mechanics.

Amir Tan · 0 likes

Private first if the class isn't super controlled. Bad classes just become group practice for explosions.