Episode #18: Oh No, Not Again! Handling Reactivity in the Moment

Does your Collie suddenly freeze, pancake to the ground, or lunge and bark when they see another dog, jogger, or unexpected trigger? 

You’re not alone - and you’re definitely not failing. 

In this episode of Collie Conversations, we’re talking about how to handle reactivity in the moment, when things get messy, emotions run high, and you just want to disappear into the nearest hedge.

I’m Gemma Fisher, Border Collie specialist and your guide through the wild world of reactivity. 

Whether your Collie barks, growls, snaps, or just completely shuts down when overwhelmed, this episode will give you the confidence and tools to handle those tricky encounters - without shame, panic, or feeling judged by others.

We’ll break down what actually helps in the heat of the moment, from managing lead tension to reading your dog’s body language and learning how to exit gracefully (even when you’re both rattled). 

Plus, we’ll cover the emotional side of reactivity - the part nobody talks about - like how to deal with people who don’t get it and how to stop second-guessing yourself after every meltdown.

Here’s what we’ll cover in today’s episode:

00:00 Intro – “Oh No, Not Again!” Moments
01:15 Why reactivity feels so personal
03:48 What to do when your Collie freezes or fixates
06:25 My step-by-step for safely exiting reactive situations
10:18 How to handle judgment from others on walks
14:07 Muzzle training – how it builds safety AND confidence
17:45 What to reflect on after a reactive event

You’ll also learn how tools like “This Way” turn cues, fitted harnesses, and well-trained muzzles can play a huge role in helping you and your dog feel more in control - without ever needing to correct or punish your Collie.

Join our free Facebook group (https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC) to get support, share your stories, and feel understood by people who actually get it. 

And don’t forget to subscribe for future episodes on everything from reactivity recovery to building bombproof recall.

🔔 Resources Mentioned: The Muzzle Up Project – https://muzzleupproject.com/
The Muzzle Shop – https://www.themuzzleshop.com/

Thanks for tuning in to Collie Conversations - where progress matters more than perfection.

#CollieConversations #BorderCollieTraining #ReactivityHelp #DogBehaviour #GemmaFisher

Border Collie expert Gemma Fisher has dedicated her career to empowering collie owners with the skills they need for a reliable recall and a joyful partnership with their dogs. Gemma’s hands-on experience and commitment to positive methods shine in each Collie Conversation. Her podcast brings practical, inspiring advice for every Collie owner, from recall training to managing reactivity. Join her Facebook group (https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC) for even more tips and community support.