Alerting and Targeting.

If a dog is looking at it- they are thinking about it.

If the dog’s eyes and nose are oriented in the same direction, and the ears are held forward- the dog is Alerting.

If the dog continues to remain in this posture, staring for a count of 2 or 3 seconds- they are Targeting.

Targeting is often followed by status related or predatory behaviors. These behaviors are not limited to but often include: chasing, grabbing, biting, stalking, threatening, height seeking, lunging and barking, etc.

Take notice when a dog alerts to something.

It is especially important to be observant when you know the dog you have out can be reactive.

Be ready with treats and/ or a toy to take action when your dog begins to alert. Remember the next moment the dog could start targeting, and then burst into action if nothing is done.

When you find yourself already in the midst of a whirlwind of lunging and barking, then it is time to turn and walk in the other direction. Do not try to touch the dog- instead walk away from what the dog is targeting.

When the dog is calm enough to pay attention again to you, help the dog relax and begin to work on some training to re-engage.

Good habits can be created, if training takes place before the old habit is in action.

Julia Klaucke
CPDT-KA Certified Professional Dog Trainer
Head Dog Trainer for Danbury Animal Welfare Society (DAWS) &

Pet Animal Welfare Society (PAWS)
203-751-7280
Julia@SitTrustStay.com 
SitTrustStay.com