Opposition Reflex (Thigmotaxis) describes which behavior?

Opposition Reflex (Thigmotaxis) describes which behavior?

• A. If you pull one way, the dog's natural reflex is to pull the opposite way
• B. The dog will freeze and stop moving
• C. The dog will run away
• D. The dog will yawn

Answer: (A)

Opposition reflex is the reflex to pull in the opposite direction when pressure or restraint is applied. When you apply directional force, the dog’s nervous system triggers a counter-movement to push back against that pressure, effectively pulling away from you. This is a natural, automatic response, not a deliberate choice or defiance. In training, it helps explain why pulling on a leash can backfire—the dog resists by pulling opposite to where you’re trying to go. To work with this, use steady, gentle pressure toward the desired direction and reward the dog for moving forward, so the dog learns that forward movement yields relief and a reward. The other options describe different behaviors (freezing, fleeing, yawning) that aren’t the reflex in question.

Opposition reflex is the reflex to pull in the opposite direction when pressure or restraint is applied. When you apply directional force, the dog’s nervous system triggers a counter-movement to push back against that pressure, effectively pulling away from you. This is a natural, automatic response, not a deliberate choice or defiance. In training, it helps explain why pulling on a leash can backfire—the dog resists by pulling opposite to where you’re trying to go. To work with this, use steady, gentle pressure toward the desired direction and reward the dog for moving forward, so the dog learns that forward movement yields relief and a reward. The other options describe different behaviors (freezing, fleeing, yawning) that aren’t the reflex in question.