Building a Support System: Must-Have Outlets for Reactive Dog Owners

Having a reactive dog can feel isolating. You might not know many dog owners—let alone ones who truly understand what it's like to navigate reactivity. The training process can be discouraging, and when you need someone to talk to, it’s frustrating when others don’t get it. Reactivity is often misunderstood—many assume it’s just aggression, a lack of training, or something easily "fixed." But the emotional toll it takes on both you and your dog is real. That’s why finding a supportive community of people who understand the challenges of reactivity is so important. You're not alone, and neither is your dog.

I know firsthand how difficult it is to find people who truly understand reactivity. The training process can feel isolating, and sometimes, you just need someone who gets it. Having a supportive community isn’t only helpful after a training session when you need to vent—it’s just as important during the session itself.

Training a reactive dog in public comes with its own set of challenges. There’s a certain level of embarrassment that can creep in, especially when you feel the weight of judgment from others. It’s frustrating—you’re already pushing past your own fears and working hard to help your dog improve, yet outside criticism can make the process feel unbearable.

Over the past year, especially after stepping away from our trainer to tackle Marlee’s reactivity on my own, I’ve discovered resources that have not only provided helpful tips and training techniques but also offered a sense of community and understanding. Here are my top five favorite outlets for reactive dog owners

1. Facebook Groups

I often feel like a mom diving into Facebook groups—but honestly, they are an absolute game-changer. What I love most about them is how incredibly specific they can be. No matter how unique or challenging your situation is, there’s a community out there that understands and can relate.

Another great aspect of these groups is the approval process. Many require admin approval before joining, which helps create a safer, more supportive space where you can share your experiences without judgment. I’m always discovering new groups, but if you’re just starting out, here are a few I highly recommend:

1. Reactive Dog Support Group

2. Support for Reactive Dogs and the People they Live With

3. Reactive and Aggressive Dog SUCCESS group

4. Dog Training Help: Trainer Answers Only

I also recommend joining groups that aren’t focused on reactivity but instead celebrate the joy of dog ownership—whether it’s sharing adorable photos, fun activity ideas, or heartwarming stories. Mixing in lighthearted content can help balance the tough days, reminding you why you started this journey in the first place. Sometimes, a cute dog photo or a creative enrichment idea is all it takes to lift your spirits and keep you motivated!

2. Podcasts

   
   

Podcasts are an incredible way to learn, gain new perspectives, and feel less alone in your reactivity journey—especially since they often feature professional trainers, behaviorists, and experienced dog owners. 

I’ve just recently started exploring reactivity-focused podcasts, and every time I listen, I walk away feeling more understood, encouraged, and motivated to keep pushing forward with our training. I recently reviewed the Reactive Dog Pod here on the blog and plan to cover more in the future—so stay tuned for more recommendations!

3. Instagram Accounts

We live in a time where many dog owners openly document their journey with reactivity (just like this blog!), making it easier than ever to find support and inspiration. Following Instagram and TikTok accounts dedicated to reactive dogs has been incredibly beneficial—not only for realizing you’re not alone but also for discovering new training techniques and strategies that might work for your pup.

Even if a particular method doesn’t suit your dog, seeing real-life progress through photos and videos is incredibly encouraging. It serves as a reminder that improvement is possible. Plus, many of these creators are active in their comments and DMs, making it easy to connect, ask questions, and share experiences.

I put together a blog post featuring some of my favorite Reactive Dog Influencers, so be sure to check it out if you’re looking for great accounts to follow!

4. Books

Books are an excellent way to dive deep into research-based information on reactive dogs. Many of the authors are experienced professionals who’ve spent years working with reactive dogs, and they often share their personal stories and insights, which can help remind you that you’re not alone in this journey.

If you find it difficult to sit down and read, audiobooks are a fantastic alternative. You can treat them just like a podcast—listening while you work, do chores, or even during training sessions with your dog! It’s a great way to stay informed without taking time away from your daily routine.

I’ve reviewed a few books on the topic right here on the blog, so make sure to check them out—and stay tuned for more recommendations coming soon!

5. Online courses 

Personally, I’ve invested in a few online courses after deciding to take training into my own hands, and they've been incredibly valuable. Even if you're not fully committed to the course content, many of these platforms offer opportunities to connect directly with trainers or join live webinars.

One of my favorite online courses is SpiritDog Training. They do an outstanding job of providing helpful email updates, sharing new techniques, and keeping you informed throughout your training journey. SpiritDog also offers a vibrant Facebook group where you can engage in regular question-and-answer sessions. This provides not only reassurance from experienced trainers but also a sense of community, helping you realize that you’re not alone in the process. It’s a great way to stay motivated and get the support you need!

And lastly, if you're truly struggling with the emotional toll of your reactivity training journey, seeking professional support from a therapist or psychologist can be incredibly beneficial. While they may not fully understand the nuances of reactive dog training, they can equip you with healthy coping strategies to manage stress, frustration, and feelings of isolation. Your well-being matters just as much as your dog’s progress, and having the right mental health support can make the journey more manageable and sustainable.

While these have been my favorite outlets, I’m always on the lookout for more. Finding new resources not only provides comfort in this journey but also fosters a sense of community and motivation. It’s so important to remember that you’re not alone—far from it. There are more reactive dog owners out there than you realize.

When you see calm, confident dogs in public, it’s easy to feel like you’re the only one struggling. But the reality is, reactive dog owners are often more strategic about where and when they take their dogs out. Just because you don’t always see them doesn’t mean they aren’t out there, feeling the same frustrations, challenges, and victories as you.

I hope these outlets help you in your own reactivity journey. And if you have any go-to resources or communities that have supported you, I’d love to hear about them in the comments—I’m always looking for more! Happy training!

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Disclaimer: I am not a professional—these are purely my personal experiences and opinions. Every dog is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Always consult with a professional trainer, behaviorist, or veterinarian when making decisions about your dog’s training, health, and well-being.