Final answer:
To manage a reactive dog in a group class, strategies such as using a barrier, positive reinforcement training, and counterconditioning can be effective.
Step-by-step explanation:
To manage a reactive dog in a group class, there are several strategies that can be used:
- Using a barrier to limit the dog's visual stimulation: This can help reduce the dog's reactivity by preventing them from being overwhelmed by the presence of other dogs.
- Using positive reinforcement training techniques: Instead of correcting the dog with a prong collar or shaming the owner, positive reinforcement training focuses on rewarding desired behaviors to encourage the dog to behave calmly and appropriately.
- Implementing counterconditioning and desensitization: This involves gradually exposing the dog to the trigger that causes their reactive behavior, while pairing it with positive rewards, to change their emotional response.