Managing a reactive dog can feel like an uphill battle, especially when their pent-up energy amplifies every trigger on a walk. But here’s a game-changing truth: structured play can be your best ally in reducing reactivity and improving focus during training sessions.
In Episode 4 of unPACKed, certified trainers Jerri Scherff (CPDT-KA) and Mattison Skoog-Simpson (CDBC, CPDT-KA) discussed how activities like tug, fetch, and flirt pole exercises can provide a healthy outlet for your dog’s energy. They explored how structured play sets the stage for calmer and more focused behavior, especially in reactive dogs.
Let’s dive into how incorporating structured play can transform your reactive dog’s training routine and overall behavior.
Why Reactive Dogs Need Structured Play
Reactive dogs often struggle with arousal control, meaning their energy levels can spike quickly and unpredictably. Without proper outlets, this energy builds up, making reactivity more intense.
Benefits of Structured Play for Reactive Dogs:
Burns Excess Energy: Any dog with a full tank will struggle to focus.. Structured play reduces the physical and mental tension that fuels reactive outbursts.
Teaches Impulse Control: Activities like tug and fetch incorporating cues like “drop” and “wait” help your dog practice self-regulation.
Improves Focus: Games that engage your dog’s mind alongside their body enhance their ability to pay attention to you during training.
Strengthens Your Bond: Play is a positive, fun way to build trust and communication with your dog.
How to Incorporate Structured Play into Your Routine
The key to effective structured play is ensuring it’s intentional and balanced. Random bursts of fetch or tug may provide temporary relief, but without structure, they can reinforce hyperactivity rather than calming your dog.
Game One: Tugging as a High-Impact, Low-Space Game
Tug is more than just a game—it’s a training tool. It quickly raises your dog’s energy level, making it an excellent opportunity to teach them how to bring it back down.
How to Use Tug for Reactive Dogs:
Start with a Verbal: Begin with a cue like “take it” or “tug” to signal when play starts.
Teach “Drop” with Energy Shifts: Use your body language and tone to signal calmness when asking for a release. Reward the drop with another round of tug.
Incorporate Calm Moments: Alternate between tug and a decompression drill, like having your dog go to their “place.” This teaches them to transition between excitement and relaxation.
Tug helps reactive dogs practice managing their arousal levels in a safe, controlled environment. As Mattison notes in Episode 4, “Tug can take a dog from a 2 to an 8 in seconds, making it a perfect tool for teaching decompression.”
Game Two: Fetch for Short, Structured Sessions
Fetch is a go-to game for many dog owners, but for reactive dogs, it’s best done in moderation. Over-repetition can lead to overstimulation and reinforce hyperactive behaviors.
How to Structure Fetch:
Limit the Duration: Play for 5–10 minutes instead of letting the game drag on.
Add a Focused Cues Between Rounds: After each retrieve, ask your dog to sit or another known cue before throwing the ball again.
Rotate with Other Activities: Alternate fetch with calm exercises like sniffing games to balance your dog’s energy levels.
Structured fetch provides physical exercise while reinforcing other skills and impulse control.
Game Three: Flirt Pole for a Mental and Physical Challenge
A flirt pole—a long pole with a rope and toy attached to the end—is an excellent tool for engaging your dog’s prey drive appropriately.
How to Use a Flirt Pole Effectively:
Incorporate Brain Work: Use cues like “leave it” or “wait” to pause the game, rewarding your dog for compliance before resuming play.
Keep Sessions Short: Limit flirt pole play to 5–7 minutes to avoid overstimulation.
Adapt for Small Spaces: This activity is perfect for indoor or backyard use, especially on rainy days.
Flirt pole exercises engage both the mind and body, providing a healthy outlet for energy and helping dogs focus.
How Structured Play Prepares Dogs for Training
Structured play isn’t just about burning energy—it’s about priming your dog for success. By engaging their body and mind before a training session, you set them up to be more focused and less reactive.
Games like tug not only help you meet your dog’s needs, but they can also teach how to recover from high arousal states, making them better equipped to handle real-world triggers.
Tips to use Structured Play with your Reactive Dog
Match Activities to Your Dog’s Needs: If your dog loves chasing, flirt poles or fetch may be ideal. For dogs with a strong love of toys, tug is often the best fit.
Focus on Quality Over Quantity: A short, structured session is far more effective than prolonged, unstructured play.
Alternate Activities: Mix up games to keep your dog engaged and prevent overuse injuries.
Play with Purpose in Reactive Dog Training
Structured play isn’t just about having fun—it’s a powerful tool for managing your reactive dog’s energy and emotions. By incorporating games like tug, fetch, and flirt pole exercises into your routine, you can help your dog stay calm, focused, and ready to learn.
Want to learn more about how to help your reactive through structured play?
Listen to Episode 4 of unPACKed for real world strategies to manage arousal and improve behavior for your reactive dog.
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.
Comments