Reactivity Survival Checklist

Print this. Take it on every walk. Track your progress daily.

Before You Leave
2-minute engagement exercise inside (eye contact + name response)
Dog sits before the door opens — zero excitement
You walk through the door first
Equipment check: flat collar or harness + 6ft leash (never retractable)
On The Walk
Loose leash at all times — tension creates tension
Scan ahead for triggers BEFORE your dog sees them
Redirect before fixation starts — not after
If your dog fixates: change direction immediately
Reward every calm pass (treat, praise, or keep walking calmly)
Stay calm yourself — your energy goes straight down the leash
If A Reaction Happens
Don't panic — increase distance from the trigger
Wait for any moment of disengagement (even a glance)
Mark + reward the second they look at you
Continue the walk — never go home early after a reaction
What triggered your dog?
Distance when reaction started? ft
Rate today's walk: / 10
Weekly Progress Tracker
Day
Triggers Seen
Calm Passes
Reactions
Rating /10
Mon
 
 
 
 
Tue
 
 
 
 
Wed
 
 
 
 
Thu
 
 
 
 
Fri
 
 
 
 
Sat
 
 
 
 
Sun