What is your dog's threshold (and what does that mean)

Understand your dog's radius to achieve sucess

Understanding Your Dog’s Threshold and Trigger Stacking in Reactivity

Reactivity in dogs is often misunderstood. It is not a sign of aggression but rather an emotional response to feeling overwhelmed or unsafe. Two key concepts in managing reactivity are thresholds and trigger stacking. Understanding these can help you better support your dog and reduce stressful reactions.

What Is a Dog’s Threshold?

A dog’s threshold is the point at which they move from feeling comfortable to feeling overwhelmed. When a dog is under their threshold, they can remain calm and process their environment without distress. However, if they go over their threshold, they may bark, lunge, growl, or shut down in response to a trigger.

Every dog has different thresholds depending on factors such as past experiences, temperament, and training. Some dogs may tolerate being close to other dogs, while others may react even at a distance.

What Is Trigger Stacking?

Trigger stacking occurs when multiple stressors build up over time, making it harder for a dog to cope. Even if a single trigger wouldn’t normally cause a reaction, experiencing multiple stressors in a short period can push a dog over their threshold.

For example:

• A dog encounters a loud noise in the morning (first stressor).

• Later, they are approached by an unfamiliar person (second stressor).

• Finally, they see another dog on a walk and suddenly react more strongly than usual.

Each stressor adds to the dog’s overall emotional load, reducing their ability to stay calm. Recognising trigger stacking is essential in preventing reactivity from escalating.

How to Help Your Reactive Dog

1. Identify Triggers – Pay attention to what causes stress and note how your dog responds.

2. Manage the Environment – Avoid overwhelming situations by increasing distance or creating safe spaces.

3. Give Time to Recover – Allow your dog time to decompress after stressful encounters.

4. Use Positive Reinforcement – Reward calm behaviour and reinforce confidence-building activities.

5. Build Coping Skills – Gradually expose your dog to triggers at a tolerable level to help them build resilience.

Final Thoughts

Understanding thresholds and trigger stacking helps you anticipate your dog’s needs and create a more positive experience for them. By managing stress and supporting their emotional well-being, you can help reduce reactivity and strengthen your bond with your dog.