Barrier Frustration - A Training Plan
- BAXTER & Bella
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
by Amy Jensen
Does your dog go nuts when restrained by a barrier? Do they get frustrated when they see something they want but cannot get to it? Check out this sample training plan and begin today to change your dog’s behavior.

Goal:
Help your dog stay calm and regulated when they see people, dogs, or other triggers beyond a fence — rather than barking, lunging, or running along the fence line.
Phase 1: Manage the Environment
Actions:
Block visual access temporarily with privacy panels, slats, or shade cloth to reduce rehearsals of reactive behavior
Supervise outdoor time – no unsupervised time in the yard until training is reliable
Leash in yard: Use a leash or long line in the yard to prevent rehearsing rushing the fence
Phase 2: Build Calm & Focus Around the Fence
Goal:
Reinforce voluntary calm behavior before the trigger appears.
Exercises:
Reinforce Calm at the Fence
Sit with your dog on leash 10–15 ft from the fence
If they look at the fence and remain calm → mark (“yes”) and reward
If a trigger appears and your dog looks but stays calm → reward heavily
Mat Work in the Yard
Teach “go to mat” inside first → generalize to yard
Practice sending your dog to a mat near the fence, reward calm
Phase 3: Controlled Desensitization with Trigger Dogs/People
Setup:
Have a helper walk a neutral dog/person on the other side of the fence
Begin far from the fence (20+ feet if needed) where your dog can remain calm
Exercises:
Look at That (LAT)
Dog sees trigger behind the fence → mark (when calm) → reward
If the dog reacts: increase distance, wait for calm before restarting
Fence Engagement Game
Trigger appears → dog turns to you → reward
You can use a cue like “With me” or “This way” to break focus and move away if needed
Phase 4: Teach a Replacement Behavior
Choices:
“Go to mat” when a dog/person walks by
“Touch” (target your hand)
“Let’s go” (move away calmly)
Default check-in when something appears behind the fence
Practice these behaviors in low-arousal situations first, then add the fence + trigger gradually.
Phase 5: Real-Life Proofing
Practice:
Have structured sessions in the yard with known triggers at increasing levels of distraction
Vary time of day, angle of approach, and distance
Use scatter feeding or sniffing games after a trigger passes to de-stress
Pro Tips:
Don’t yell or recall in frustration when your dog barks at the fence — it often escalates excitement or stress
Interrupt early: If you see arousal rising (body stiffening, ears pricked, hackles raised), calmly leash and lead your dog away before a full reaction
Daily mental enrichment inside the home can reduce yard overexcitement
Keep sessions short and positive: 5–10 minutes is ideal
Remember, it takes time, patience and consistency to change behavior. If you need extra help reach out to us! We’d love to coach you through this. Happy Training!
Perfect timing for this training. My 6 month old puppy has taught himself how to open our glass storm door to get to me outside.