6 Reasons to Love Virtual Dog Training for Your Reactive Dog

6 Reasons to Love Virtual Dog Training for Your Reactive Dog

Virtual, or online, dog training is a highly effective way to train reactive dogs. Online training isn't the best choice for every dog training scenario, like puppy socialization, for example, where in person programs are your best option. However, when it comes to reactive dogs, online training should be your top choice.

In fact, studies (and my own experience) has shown real benefits to online training for reactive dogs. One reason is that your dog is more focused on you rather than the trainer who can appear scary to your dog. Some dogs who aren't afraid of their trainer, can be easily distracted by their presence which also interferes with training success.

With online training, your dog gets to focus on and work with YOU. This is ideal because you're the one your dog needs to respond to on a daily basis. Your reactive dog struggles with anxiety which often increases in the presence of new people and equipment. Imagine what you can achieve with your dog's calm and undivided attention, an expert trainer over your shoulder (virtually) and zero impediments to your success such as an incompatible schedule with the trainer you want to work with! In no time at all you and your dog will reduce stress, increase confidence and work together as a rockstar team.

In my own experience, online training is extremely well suited to reactive dogs. I've spent years working with reactive dogs both in person and online. Over time, I realized reactive dogs often do better when I'm not physically there with them. All they need from me is a positive, detailed & well supported training program.

Think about it, even with in person training, the bulk of work happens between sessions when it's just you and your dog doing the work. The real magic is in dog owners consistently practicing what they learn from their trainer whether that was in person or online.

Online work is the natural evolution of certain types of dog training just as it has been for exercise classes and therapy sessions. The ability to train online is an amazing opportunity for reactive dogs and it makes me so happy for them.

All that said, here are 6 of my favorite reasons to love online dog training for reactive dogs

1. Less Stressful! Reactive dogs are stressed out—and so are their owners. Research indicates that online training sessions help reduce stress and are just as effective, if not more so, for fearful pups. Anecdotally, I’ve also found that virtual sessions reduce stress for dog parents who are often uncomfortable with strangers in their home. Dogs learn best when they feel safe and they feel safest at home with their people. Virtual training allows you to work with your dog at home, free from distractions and stressors of an unfamiliar setting or person. This creates an ideal learning atmosphere for fearful and reactive pups.

2. More Accessible! Whether it’s a matter of distance, time or accommodating different needs, online training is available to everyone. Sessions can be recorded, transcribed and offered in a variety of formats to suit your learning style and preferences. Visual aids, closed captioning & other accessibility features make virtual training inclusive and effective.

3. More Flexible! The logistics of in-person training—session length, number of lessons and travel time—limit flexibility. With online training, I can offer variable-length sessions, multiple daily check-ins, “ride-along” support during real-life situations and other adaptable options. This flexibility helps clients get results faster and more conveniently.

4. Less Expensive! With zero travel time or vehicle wear and tear, I save money working online—and I love passing those savings on to my clients. The highly focused nature of virtual sessions often means we accomplish more in fewer meetings, resulting in additional savings for clients.

5. More Convenient! Virtual training makes it easier to stick to your training plan. Bad weather? No problem. Something comes up? You can reschedule with ease. Plus, you can review session recordings and resources at your convenience, ensuring you stay on track even when life gets busy.

6. More Progress! When you have an online session, you get a recording of it you can rewatch when you need a refresher. Online services tend to come with more supporting resources to advance your work quicker and easier. You'll also find that regardless of your dog's issue, there is someone online specializing in it like I specialize in reactivity. I've seen amazing results come from a single online training session.

Not only does virtual dog training come with less stress, better accessibility, greater flexibility, lower costs, increased convenience and faster progress, it ensures your dog learns in a safe, familiar environment. Add the convenience of consistent follow-through and it’s a win-win for both you and your pup.

With the dramatic increase in dogs showing reactive behaviors, I've made a commitment to help even more reactive dogs and their families in 2025. One way I'm doing that is by offering more online services.

Ready to give online dog training a try? Let’s connect and start making progress today!