Before you can change the behaviour, you need to understand where it's coming from and what it is. We dig into the real reasons dogs react, from fear to frustration and everything in between. You'll learn about underlying issues that can cause and increase reactivity. You'll also learn to read your dog's body language, pick up on the early warning signs before a reaction happens, and get your first plans to start changing behaviour.

This is where you'll learn to handle your dog like a pro. You'll learn the science behind training, the plan that Emily uses — the evidence-based approach that actually changes how your dog feels about their triggers, not just what they do. We'll also sort your equipment so your walks are set up for success from the start.

Training in a perfect environment is one thing — the real world is another. This week we get specific. Depending on whether your dog reacts to other dogs, people, bikes, or something else entirely, we'll build a plan that reflects your actual life. You'll learn how to use the environment to your advantage, how to structure your training sessions around threshold, and how to handle the situations that trip most people up: tight spaces, apartment living, unexpected encounters, being caught off guard and more.

Reactivity isn't always fixed in a month, but it can be transformed over time with the right approach. In our final session, we add one more tool to your kit, talk honestly about regression (it happens), and look at when to loop in your vet or a specialist. We will also look at what behaviour change will look like moving forward, as you ease into a new life with your dog.