Reactive dog walking tips for real streets

A reactive dog is not "bad". They are over threshold for something: dogs, bikes, hats, the universe.

Management first

Distance is your friend. Cross early. Use parked cars as screens. Quieter times of day beat brave confrontations.

Training support

Work with a force-free trainer or behaviourist when you can. Welfare charities and qualified professionals beat random online challenges.

Success looks dull

A walk with no fireworks is a win. So is a shorter route that keeps everyone below threshold.

Patch without pressure

Use the app as a walk record if leaderboards spike your stress. You can still explore new quiet streets without racing anyone.

Try it on your next walk

Download Patch free on iOS or Android. Tap once when you leave, walk as normal, and see what ground your dog claims.

There's unclaimed ground outside right now.

Download the free dog walking game on iOS and Android. Your first patch takes about four minutes.