Training
Leash Reactivity in Guardian Breeds
May 28, 2026 · 1 min read · Royal Kennels Rescue
Why your Corso loses it on walks, and the boring routine that fixes it.
Lunging and barking at other dogs is the number one complaint we hear from new adopters. It is fixable.
What is really happening
Most leash reactivity is frustration or defensiveness, not aggression. The leash removes the dog's option to create distance, so they make noise instead.
Change the distance, not the dog
Work at the range where your dog notices another dog but can still eat a treat. That distance is your starting line. Closing it happens over weeks, not days.
Mark and feed
The instant your dog sees the trigger and does not react, mark it and feed. You are teaching "other dog appears, good things happen, look at me".
Stop rehearsing the failure
Every walk where your dog explodes makes the next one worse. Change routes and times until you can win.
Gear
A well fitted front clip harness and a six foot lead. No flexi leads and no correction tools without a trainer who knows the breed.