07986 632851 rizia@pentlandsdogtraining.co.uk
07986 632851 rizia@pentlandsdogtraining.co.uk
Living with a reactive dog can feel exhausting. The barking, lunging or sudden explosions on walks can leave you stressed, embarrassed or avoiding certain places altogether. It can feel like you’re always one step behind, waiting for something to go wrong.
You’re not alone. I’ve lived with a reactive dog myself, so I know how heavy it can feel and how much progress is possible with the right approach.
Reactivity isn’t your dog being “bad”. It’s their way of coping when the world feels too close or too fast. With support, you can help them feel safer, calmer and more in control of their emotions.
Reactivity simply means your dog reacts more intensely or more quickly than most. It can show up as:
Barking or lunging at dogs or people
Jumping, spinning or becoming overstimulated
Freezing or over-focusing in busy places
Being unable to settle after a difficult walk
It looks different for every dog but the impact is the same. Life feels harder than it needs to be for both of you.
Read my blog on How to Help My Reactive Dog on Walks
Walks that feel unpredictable
A dog who reacts before you can get ahead of it
Avoiding routes, times of day or places
Tension every time you see another dog
Feeling judged, embarrassed or overwhelmed
Worrying you’re doing something wrong
Calmer responses
A dog who can look and disengage
Predictable, manageable walks
Better focus when the world gets busy
More confidence on both ends of the lead
A steadier dog who can think instead of explode
Training takes place in quiet, fully fenced indoor and outdoor spaces in the Pentland Hills. It’s a calm, low-pressure environment where your dog can learn without being rushed, watched or pushed too close to the things they find difficult.
Having both indoor and outdoor areas means we can control the space, the distance and the setups so your dog can stay under threshold and make steady progress. No surprises, no crowds and no pressure.
Accredited with ABTC, APDT and PACT
Reactivity specialist since 2008
Secure indoor and outdoor spaces for safe learning
Calm, steady approach built around your dog
Support and guidance between sessions
Flexible weekday, evening and weekend availability
How to recognise your dog’s triggers before they boil over
Step-by-step strategies for calmer, more predictable walks
How to build focus and engagement, even in busy places
Confidence for both ends of the lead
“Every goal felt achievable and realistic, and early wins helped me take the pressure off both of us. I really wish we’d started with Rizia sooner.” Jemma & Truffle
Where do sessions take place?
In my private indoor and outdoor training spaces near Kirknewton in the Pentland Hills. We are 10 minutes from Balerno, Edinburgh and 20 minutes from both Livingstone and Carnwarth.
Do you only work with fearful dogs?
No. Reactivity can come from fear, frustration, excitement or a mix of emotions. Whatever the cause, I’ll help you understand it and build skills that make life easier.
Can my dog train if they can’t be near other dogs yet?
Yes. We start with the distance and setups your dog can cope with. There’s no pressure to “walk past” anything they’re not ready for.
Do you use punishment or corrective tools?
Never. I use kind, reward-based training that helps your dog feel safe enough to learn. Reactivity isn’t solved with fear or force.
Which areas do you cover?
West Lothian, Edinburgh, Midlothian, East Lothian, Lanarkshire, Fife and Glasgow.
You don’t have to keep guessing or hoping things improve on their own.
Reactivity can change with the right approach and the right support.
Start with a free call and we’ll talk through what’s going on and what would help most.
Or if you prefer to message me, I will reply as soon as I can
Based in Kirknewton, Pentland Dog Training provides positive dog training across West Lothian, Edinburgh, and Glasgow. Whether you’re in Livingston, Lanark, Midlothian, East Lothian or Fife, you’ll find accredited, kind support to help with puppies, reactivity, and everyday training challenges
Learn more about positive, science-led training methods here - Association of Pet Dog Trainers UK (APDT)