Sound familiar?
Reactivity doesn't just affect your dog — it affects your entire life. If any of these hit close to home, you're in the right place.
You dread walks because you never know when your dog will kick off
Your dog lunges, barks, and pulls the moment they spot another dog or person
You feel embarrassed and judged by other dog owners on the street
You've tried everything — treats, commands, different leads — and nothing sticks
Your dog's recall is unreliable and you're scared to let them off the lead
You love your dog, but the daily stress is wearing you down
Here's what we're going to achieve together.
By the end of the Reactivity Transformation Program, you will be able to walk your dog past other dogs and people without the lunging, barking, or pulling. You'll have reliable recall. You'll feel confident — not anxious — every time you pick up the lead.
This isn't about managing the problem forever. It's about solving it — and giving you the tools to keep it solved for the life of your dog.
"I've tried training before and it didn't work."
We hear this constantly. And honestly? We believe you. Here's why this is different.
| The situation | Most trainers | Lead the Way QLD |
|---|---|---|
| Approach to reactivity | Generalist obedience training applied to a specialist problem | Exclusively focused on reactivity — it's all we do |
| Program structure | Group classes where your dog is surrounded by triggers from day one | Private 1-on-1 sessions built around your dog's specific triggers |
| Between sessions | You're on your own until the next class | Direct WhatsApp access to your trainer for real-time support |
| Trainer's lived experience | Trained in obedience; may not have owned a reactive dog | Lex has owned and worked with reactive dogs for over a decade |
| When things don't improve | You're told to keep practising — or blamed for not doing it right | We keep working with you at no extra cost until you see results |
| Pre-training preparation | Show up and see what happens | Structured homework and resources before session one even starts |
If training hasn't worked before, it's not your fault — and it's not your dog's fault. Reactivity is a specialist problem. Applying general obedience training to it is like seeing a GP for a broken leg. The right specialist, with the right approach, makes all the difference.
Everything you need. Nothing you don't.
Every element is designed to save you time, reduce your effort, and get your dog to the result faster.
This program is built for the right fit.
We work best with owners who are ready to commit. Here's how to know if that's you.
Who This Is For
Owners who are ready to commit to the process and show up for their dog
People who want a lasting solution, not a temporary band-aid
Owners who are willing to do the homework between sessions
Those who want to understand their dog, not just manage them
Anyone who feels embarrassed, exhausted, or stuck — and is ready for that to change
Owners who want to be part of the training, not just hand their dog over
Who This Is Not For
People looking for a quick fix without putting in the work
Owners who want to send their dog away and have it returned 'fixed' without their involvement
Those who aren't willing to change their own habits or routines to support their dog
Owners who aren't ready to commit to attending all sessions
Anyone who wants a guarantee of perfection — we promise progress, not robots
If you're in the first column, we'd love to talk. The next step is a free, no-pressure consult call with us.
How it works
Three simple steps from where you are now to walks you actually enjoy.
Apply Online
Fill out the short pre-application form so we can understand your dog's situation before we speak. Takes less than 2 minutes.
Free Consult Call
We'll have a no-pressure call to talk through your dog's reactivity, answer your questions, and confirm the program is the right fit.
Start Training
You'll receive your pre-training homework, we'll fit your equipment pack, and your 5-session program begins — on your schedule, in your area.
Our Guarantee
We guarantee that if you attend all sessions and follow the training plan, you will see a marked improvement in your dog's reactivity. If you don't, we will continue working with you personally — at no additional cost — until that improvement is achieved. We are committed to your result, not just your sessions.
Real dogs. Real results.
"We just finished our training course with these guys and they are incredible! Both Lex and Tyler are so knowledgeable and helpful. No judgement at all — it was great. Can't wait to move into our next lot of sessions with them. As someone with multiple reactive dogs, I can't recommend them highly enough!"
"Our dog Walter has always been a very anxious soul, and over the last few years his anxiety turned into reactivity. After a few years of trial and mostly error, we reached out to the team — and we are so grateful we did. After the 6-week course, Wally's confidence grew substantially. The wealth of knowledge and support is incredible. Nothing is ever too much, and you're never made to feel like a bad dog parent — there's nothing but encouragement and guidance."
Hi, I'm Lex.
Head Trainer & Behaviourist · Lead the Way QLD
My journey into dog training started back in 2011 with my own dog, Freckles. I enrolled her in training, fell in love with the process, and by the end of the course the trainer asked me what shirt size I wore. That was the start of my career. I worked there for five years, learning the foundations of training and working hands-on with dogs and their people every day.
In 2016, I rescued Jed. He started coming to work with me and that's when I began to really understand the challenges many owners face. Jed struggled with significant separation anxiety and later developed reactivity. Living with him meant constant learning, adjusting, and advocating for what he needed.
Jed changed everything. Wanting to support him properly pushed me to learn more, do more, and question a lot of the advice owners are often given. I kept hearing from clients who felt judged, dismissed, or blamed when things didn't improve. That combination is what led me to start Paws, Claws & Whiskers — which has now evolved into Lead the Way QLD.
Since then, I've owned two reactive dogs — my current dog Pickles came to me reactive as well. I know the stress of walks that feel impossible, the constant management, the worry about doing the wrong thing, and the emotional weight that comes with loving a dog who struggles.
That lived experience shapes how I work. My goal is to help calm reactive dogs and give owners the tools, confidence, and understanding they need to reclaim their lives together. Training should feel supportive, practical, and achievable — not overwhelming or intimidating.
"If you're feeling stuck, exhausted, or unsure where to turn — you're not alone. I've been there, and I'm here to help."
Common Questions
Where do sessions take place?
Sessions are conducted in real-world environments in your local area — wherever your dog's reactivity actually shows up.
How long does each session run?
Sessions are typically 1 hour each, spaced weekly to allow time for practice and consolidation between appointments.
My dog is severely reactive. Is this program right for us?
Reactivity is all we do. Whether your dog's triggers are mild or severe, the program is tailored to their specific level. For the very small number of dogs who need a more intensive environment, we also offer a Board & Train option — but this is assessed on a case-by-case basis. If we don't think we can help, we'll tell you honestly before you commit.
What is Board & Train and is it available?
Board & Train is an intensive residential program where your dog stays with us for an extended period of focused training. It's not for everyone — it suits a very specific type of dog and situation. We only take on one dog at a time to ensure the highest level of care and attention. If you think this might be relevant for your dog, mention it when you apply and we'll discuss whether it's the right fit.
What if I can't commit to the full program right now?
We do have a smaller starting option available. Call us on 0494 384 731 or apply via the form and we can discuss what's right for your situation.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. Get in touch and we can discuss options that work for you.
Ready to enjoy
walking your dog again?
Spots are limited. Apply now or give us a call to find out if the Reactivity Transformation Program — or our intensive Board & Train option — is the right fit for you and your dog.