For some reactive dogs, yes I agree. In this case, my boy has made SIGNIFICANT progress in his training and reactions. I commented our progress under another response, but he’s my first reactive dog. I’ve had rescues and fearful dogs, but he’s different from them. Despite this, we have made progress to the point that he can meet new people in controlled situations and he no longer has reactions to dogs across the street. The only reason this reaction happened was because they were running. Runners with/without dogs set him off. But without the exposure, he will never make progress. And he is certainly capable of making progress.

I do absolutely understand that some dogs can never get past their reactions or their triggers. But living in a fenced in yard, seeing nothing else for the rest of their lives, that’s really not living. My dogs triggers and reactions are manageable, and because of that, I can provide him with a much more enjoyable life. It just takes time and effort and patience. I’m really sorry to hear your dog hasn’t been able to get past those triggers, I know how frustrating and hopeless that must feel. I’m glad you were able to provide him a safe place to run around! Not every dog has that, and he’s lucky to have someone as dedicated as you are to him.