No Bad Dogs Podcast E336- Is Your Dog Reactive, Protective, or Aggressive? How to Tell the Difference
Jan 5, 2026
Explore the intriguing distinctions between reactive, protective, and aggressive dog behaviors. Tom uses his own dog, Burley, to illustrate how instinct and maturity play vital roles. Learn effective counter-conditioning techniques for engagement during walks and when to choose avoidance strategies with protective dogs. He highlights the importance of training to curb leash reactivity and discusses the serious nature of true aggression. Understanding your dog's unique traits is key to setting realistic training goals for a harmonious relationship.
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Reactivity, Protection, Aggression Cycle
- Some dogs cycle between reactivity, protection, and aggression depending on context and maturity.
- Recognizing which mode a dog is in clarifies training goals and risk management.
Burley: A Protective Mastiff Example
- Tom describes Burley, a South African Mastiff, as instinctually protective and reactive on walks.
- Burley sometimes locks in on other dogs and becomes unreachable despite training attempts.
Use Counter-Conditioning With Engagement
- Counter-condition by rewarding attention when the dog looks back at you during triggers.
- Use food or preferred rewards to build engagement before encountering stressors.