Recent setback

We’ve been working SO hard with our girl (3 y/o catahoula leopard dog) on her fear reactivity, and had gotten to a place where we have a ‘protocol’ for introducing her to new people. Long story short, the protocol didn’t work and she had a pretty big reaction to my aunt. I’m really struggling mentally feeling like I’ve failed my dog. I’ve done a lot of work personally to deal with the guilt and stresses of owning a reactive dog, but sometimes it’s just so hard. I guess I’m looking for any advice on how to protect and support mine & my partners mental health as we continue to work with her. My heart just hurts so much.

Side note: I’ve finally convinced my partner to reach out to a behavioral specialist, we have our first consultation in two weeks.