Living with multiple dogs can be a joy—until reactivity turns daily routines into high-stress chaos.
When one dog barks, the others join in. When one lunges on a walk, the pack follows suit. It’s enough to make even the most patient dog owner feel overwhelmed.
Reactivity in multi-dog households isn’t uncommon, but it is manageable.
In the first episode of unPACKed, the only clinical dog behavior podcast, certified dog trainers Jerri Scherff (CPDT-KA) and Mattison Skoog-Simpson (CDBC, CPDT-KA) shared expert strategies to help pet parents navigate this complex dynamic.
Here, we’re unpacking the key principles for managing multi-dog reactivity and building a more harmonious home.
What Causes Reactivity in Multi-Dog Households?
Reactivity refers to an exaggerated response to a trigger, such as other dogs, people, or unfamiliar sounds.
In multi-dog households, reactivity often becomes a shared problem:
Individual triggers: Each dog has their own unique set of triggers.
Amplified Energy: One dog’s outburst can quickly set off the others.
Trigger Generalization: Dogs learn from each other, so if one reacts to a specific stimulus, others may follow suit over time.
Human Stress: Owners often feel overwhelmed managing multiple dogs, which can inadvertently escalate the situation.
Each dog’s reactivity can stem from unique emotions, making it essential to understand the individual needs of every dog (and human) in the home.
Start with Individual Assessments
When managing reactivity, it’s tempting to look for one-size-fits-all solutions. But Jerri and Mattison emphasize the importance of treating each dog as an individual.
Ask yourself:
What triggers each dog’s reactivity?
Is their reactivity fear-based, frustration-driven, or excitement-related?
How does each dog respond when they’re separated from the group?
For example, one dog might react out of fear, while another becomes overexcited. Knowing the difference allows you to tailor your approach.
Separate and Conquer
One of the most effective ways to manage multi-dog reactivity is to work with each dog separately.
This might include:
Solo Walks: Walking reactive dogs together can magnify stress. Taking one dog at a time reduces triggers and allows you to focus on training.
Individual Training Sessions: Reinforce calm behavior with each dog individually before attempting group scenarios.
Breaks from Each Other: Dogs that spend all their time together may develop co-dependency. Give each dog one-on-one time with you to build independence.
In most cases, it will be difficult or impossible to move forward with them as a unit until you’ve figured some things out individually.
Master Management Techniques
Good management is the foundation for success in a multi-dog household.
Jerri and Mattison recommend implementing strategies that prioritize safety while reducing stress:
Barrier Management: Use gates, pens, or crates to create clear boundaries during high-stress times, like when guests visit.
Structured Routines: Consistent mealtimes, walks, and play sessions help reduce uncertainty, which can trigger anxiety and reactivity.
Calm Transitions: Avoid chaos by staggering how you release or move dogs, such as letting them out for potty breaks one at a time.
Address Underlying Triggers
Reactivity often stems from deeper issues like fear, frustration, or overstimulation. Tackling the root cause is essential:
Desensitization and Counter-Conditioning: Gradually expose your dogs to their triggers at a manageable level while pairing the experience with something positive, like treats or praise.
Physical and Mental Enrichment: Reactive dogs often lack healthy outlets for their energy. Activities like structured play, sniff walks, and puzzle toys help them burn off stress in a productive way.
Sound Sensitivity Training: For dogs triggered by noises, use white noise machines or play calming music to mask environmental sounds.
Build Calm Behavior Through Training
Teaching calm behavior is a game-changer for reactive dogs.
Focus on skills like:
Stationing: Train your dogs to go to a designated spot, like a mat or bed, and stay there until released. This helps reduce chaos in multi-dog situations.
Impulse Control Exercises: Games like “wait,” “leave it,” and “look at me” help reactive dogs focus on you instead of their triggers.
Relaxation Protocols: Encourage calm body language through techniques like slow petting, T-Touch, or teaching your dogs to relax on cue.
Understand the Human Factor
Your reactions matter as much as your dogs’. When you’re tense or frustrated, your dogs will pick up on it.
Practice staying calm and consistent, even in challenging moments.
If multiple people in your household are involved in your dogs’ care, assign clear roles to avoid confusion. For example, one person can focus on training while others handle routine tasks like feeding and potty breaks.
Why It’s Worth the Effort
Reactivity in a multi-dog household may feel overwhelming, but it’s a solvable challenge.
By addressing each dog’s needs, setting clear boundaries, and creating a calm, structured environment, you can reduce stress and build a stronger bond with your pack.
Want to learn more about reactivity in a multi-dog household?
Tune in to Episode 1 of the unPACKed to hear Jerri and Mattison dive deeper into real-life strategies for managing reactivity in multi-dog households.
about unpacked
unPACKed was created by Jerri Scherff and Mattison Skoog-Simpson. This is a community-focused project to provide transparent education within the dog training industry. Tune in every month for a new episode to unPACK real canine behavior cases.
Connect with us on Instagram @unPACKed.stream
Jerri Scherff (CPDT-KA) - Tulsa Pack Athletics
Mattison Skoog-Simpson (CDBC, CPDT-KA) - Freed by Training
Disclaimer: The information shared in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for working directly with a qualified dog training or behavior professional. Always consult a professional for guidance tailored to your dog’s specific needs.