Encounter training for dogs - confident instead of explosive

What is encounter training?

Encounter training means teaching the dog to deal with other dogs, people or stimuli calmly and appropriately in everyday life in a controlled and targeted manner. The aim is not for the dog to "work", but for it to feel safe - and thus be able to react in a relaxed manner.

We - Lui & Paulina - accompany many dogs that go berserk, fixate, bark or want to escape when we meet them on the Leash. For us, this is not "bad behaviour", but an expression of insecurity, frustration or excessive demands. Encounter training is therefore not a confrontation, but communication.

Why do dogs react strongly in encounters?

Encounters are complex. The dog is particularly lacking on the Leash:

• Natural alternatives

• the opportunity for free communication (e.g. bow walking)

• Control over the situation

If bad experiences, high levels of excitement or an insecure person are added to this, the dog explodes - not out of malice, but out of stress.

What are the benefits of encounter training?

Targeted encounter training helps the dog:

• To perceive stimuli more calmly

• to rely on people

• Show alternative behaviour (e.g. eye contact instead of barking)

• to regulate themselves at an early stage

• Regaining trust and control

And the human being:

• Recognising and managing situations at an early stage

• To provide security

• Act actively instead of reactively

How does encounter training work?

1. Distance creates security

Not every dog has to "hold out". Only at a distance at which the dog remains responsive can you train sensibly.

2. Learning to categorise stimuli

The dog should not learn: "Other dog = danger", but "I see something, stay calm, get feedback from my human".

3. Establish rituals and signals

Focus on the person, bow walking, sitting down, eye contact - everything can help if it is built up calmly.

4. Rewarding calm behaviour

Every relaxed reaction is praised - the dog learns that calmness pays off.

5. Step-by-step structure with real encounters

Not straight to the dog park - but controlled settings, e.g. social walks or training with well-managed dogs.

Our approach at Vitomalia

In encounter training, we focus on trust, adapting the pace and genuine communication. No coercion, no confrontation, no "pull-through method".

We pay attention to:

• the body language of the dog

• the energy of man

• the development of reinsurance

• Training in realistic but fair situations

Encounter training often begins with more distance - but ends with more closeness. And voluntarily.

Our conclusion

Encounter training is relationship training. It is not about control, but about trust. Not about suppression, but about understanding.

A dog that can rely on you in encounters doesn't need a loud voice. It needs your calm presence.

And that is precisely our goal at Vitomalia: sovereignty - on both sides of the Leash.