Confidence & Exposure
Sensitization
Also known as:Sensitisation
An increased response to a stimulus after exposure or repeated experience.
In Review — Pending Editorial ApprovalWhat It Means in Practice
If a dog has a negative experience with a stimulus, repeated exposure can make the response stronger, not weaker. The dog becomes more sensitive, not less.
What It Does Not Always Mean
Sensitization is not the same as stubbornness or regression. It is a natural learning process where the dog's response intensifies.
Why Context Matters
Sensitization is the opposite of habituation. Whether a dog habituates or sensitizes depends on the nature of the stimulus and the dog's experience.
Commonly Confused With
Habituation
Habituation reduces response to neutral stimuli. Sensitization increases response to stimuli that have become threatening.
Examples
- 1A dog who is startled by a loud noise becomes increasingly reactive to similar sounds.
- 2A dog who has a negative experience at the vet becomes more distressed with each visit.