10 Tips to Become a reactive dog ally

How can I be an ally to reactive dogs? You can support reactive dogs by giving them space, avoiding sudden approaches, and respecting their handlers. Small actions, like crossing the street or stepping aside on a trail, help create calmer, safer walks for dogs and people.

If you’ve ever walked a reactive dog, you know how challenging it can be. Barking, lunging, growling, or spinning on the leash aren’t signs of a "bad dog." They’re signs of a dog experiencing fear, anxiety, or frustration.

For dog guardians, managing these big feelings on walks is already tough. But the truth is, friends, neighbors, and fellow dog lovers can make a huge difference. With a few small changes, anyone can become a true reactive dog ally and help create calmer, safer walks for everyone.

A reactive dog is one that overreacts to everyday triggers, like other dogs, people, bikes, or even cars. While many dogs might glance and move on, a reactive dog may bark, lunge, or show other intense behaviors. This doesn’t mean they’re aggressive; it means their emotions are running high.

Understanding this is the first step in becoming a supportive community member for reactive dogs and their owners.

Living with a reactive dog can feel isolating. Dog guardians often feel judged or misunderstood, when what they really need is patience and space. By becoming a reactive dog ally, you’re showing empathy, building awareness, and helping dogs learn to feel safe.

Here are ten simple but powerful ways to help:

One of the best ways to support a reactive dog team is by giving them space. If you notice a dog barking, lunging, or their handler stopping to manage them, cross the street instead of walking straight toward them.

This small action can prevent a stressful outburst and gives both dog and human a chance to reset.

If you’re wondering how to walk your dog around a reactive dog, crossing the street is the single most respectful choice you can make.

Picture this: a dog guardian is walking past your parked car, carefully handling their reactive dog, and suddenly you open your door and let your dog jump out.

For a reactive dog, this surprise is overwhelming. Instead, pause for a couple of minutes and wait until the other dog passes before unloading yours.

This tiny bit of awareness shows huge kindness and prevents leash reactivity incidents.

If you see someone stepping off to the side, changing direction, or clearly trying to calm their dog, take the hint: don’t keep walking closer.

Reactive dogs need space to recover. Approaching anyway, even with the friendliest intentions, adds unnecessary pressure.

If you are asking how to help a reactive dog owner, the answer is often simple: respect their space.

Not every dog wants to be greeted. Teach kids (and remind yourself) to ask before approaching. A reactive dog may not be ready for that interaction. Just like you don't want unknown people to touch you in public, neither do all dogs.

A "friendly" dog rushing up can be a nightmare for a reactive dog. Keep your dog close to you so others feel safe. Friendly doesn't always mean welcome. This goes for flexi-leashes too.

Direct eye contact from strangers can feel threatening. For any dog you see, glance and move on rather than watching closely. 

Guardians of reactive dogs often feel isolated. Instead of sighs or stares, offer a nod or smile. It shows support instead of shame. The biggest compliment I received with my reactive dog was when I was desensitizing her in a busy park. A woman walked by with her dog, noticed me, and said, "you're killing it." It meant so much to me to be seen and recognized. It has been years, but tears still come to my eyes thinking of the support she offered in a single phrase. 

Another time, I was training my dog in an airport. A woman approached me and stood at an appropriate distance with her service dog. She said "I know what you're doing. We had to do that for months. Months!" Then she casually strolled away, into an elevator with her super calm dog, who didn't miss a beat.

If your dog is off leash, follow the direction of the person coming toward you and leash up if they are leashed, then give them space. If the path is narrow, step off to the side so the reactive dog can pass without pressure. Few dogs are able to pass this close without discomfort, even if you don't notice it. This small gesture can prevent a big reaction.

Car doors slamming, skateboards rolling, horns honking, leaf blowers, and lawn mowers can terrify a reactive dog. When possible, reduce sudden noises around dogs and their handlers.

Awareness is everything. Share these tips with friends, family, or your dog-loving neighbors so more people can become reactive dog allies.

Being a reactive dog ally isn’t complicated. It’s about awareness, empathy, and a willingness to make small adjustments that mean the world to reactive dogs and their people.

💛 Small changes create calmer, safer walks for everyone.

So the next time you’re out with your non-reactive dog, remember: a little space, a short pause, or a simple detour might just make you a hero to a reactive dog team.

Author Bio

Shawna Baskette is a Canadian-born dog behavior educator with over 20 years of professional research experience and a specialty focus on reactivity. She studies peer-reviewed canine behavior literature, translates evidence into practical steps, and founded The Dog Library and Reactive Dog Reset to help dogs and owners reach calmer lives together.

Do you know someone with a reactive dog? Help them learn how to help their dog by referring them to this blog post: What to do with a Reactive Dog: A Research-Based Guide for Change