Why Is My Dog So Reactive? Part II: Turning Barking and Lunging Into Trust and Play

Sarah Hodgson continues her deep dive into reactivity with the remarkable story of Hannah and her boxer, Ranger. Once on the verge of being rehomed, Ranger barked, lunged, and snapped his way through daily life—until a few simple shifts changed everything.

Sarah shares how reframing his behavior from “bad” to “burdened” unlocked a new path forward. Through structure, safety, and play, Ranger learned to relax, trust, and reconnect with his family. You’ll hear how setting boundaries, creating calm routines, and letting go of constant correction turned tension into teamwork.

Whether your dog guards the window or pulls on every walk, this heartfelt episode shows that reactive dogs aren’t broken—they just need clarity, compassion, and a little help finding their calm.

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