What’s the Best Way to Exercise a Reactive Dog?
What’s the Best Way to Exercise a Reactive Dog?
Reactivity in dogs is more common than most people realise - and it doesn’t make your dog bad.
It means they’re responding (often loudly) to triggers like other dogs, bikes, people, or sudden changes.
So what’s the best way to exercise a reactive dog? The key is to find outlets for movement without triggering fear or over-arousal.
Here are five of the most effective methods:
🟢 1. Book a Secure, Private Dog Field
This is, hands-down, one of the best options. At The Dog Play Park, for example, your dog has the entire space to themselves - no distractions, no off-lead dogs running up to them, and full control over the environment.
This creates a calm setting to:
Practise recall
Let off steam safely
Build positive associations with movement
Plus, you can tailor the session to suit your dog’s pace. Want a quiet sniffy walk? A game of fetch? Some training drills? It’s all possible - on your own terms.
🧠 2. Use Scent Work & Mental Games
Mental enrichment is just as tiring (sometimes more) than a long walk.
Try →
Scatter feeding
Snuffle mats
Hide-and-seek with toys
DIY treat trails in the garden
Bonus: These can be done indoors or in your own back garden on tough days.
🐾 3. Movement Through Play
If your dog struggles on lead, structured play is a brilliant alternative.
Try:
Tug-of-war
Controlled chase games (on a long line)
Retrieve/fetch with built-in impulse control
You’ll help burn energy and reinforce boundaries.
🌳 4. Explore Quiet Outdoor Spaces
Look for →
Little-known walking trails
Woodland paths with good visibility
Off-peak times at local parks
Always scan the area in advance, and have an exit plan if things get overwhelming.
🧘 5. Keep Your Energy in Check
This one’s huge: your dog takes cues from you.
If you’re tense, rushing, or dreading the walk - they’ll feel it.
Start with →
Breathing exercises before heading out
Shorter, calmer sessions
Reframing the goal from “a long walk” to “a calm experience”
Final Tip: You don’t need to do everything every day. One secure field visit + one scent game + one calm walk per week is a HUGE win.
Looking for a Safe Space Near Congleton? Try a solo session at The Dog Play Park - where reactive dogs can be themselves, safely and freely.
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