08/29/2026
Lunging, barking, and snapping at other dogs or people usually isn't born out of "dominance." It almost always comes from fear and overwhelm.
When a dog feels trapped on a leash and perceives a threat, their instinct is to create distance: "If I make enough noise, the scary thing will go away."
If you are walking a reactive or aggressive dog, remember:
-You are not a bad dog owner.
-Your dog is not a "bad dog."
Punishing the growl only removes the warning sign, it doesn't fix the underlying fear.
Walking a reactive pup can feel isolating. Our in-home aggressive and reactive dog training programs can help any dog, no matter the age or breed. Contact us to learn more!