What is the difference between an aggressive and reactive dog? Reading below may give you a better idea when evaluating the distinction.

I think there are misunderstandings about dog behavior and its terminology.

What does reactivity mean? Charlotte lives happily with another dog and three cats, and she can selectively meet other dogs with appropriate temperaments in appropriate settings — and an appropriate setting is never being ambushed by an out-of-control off-leash dog. Charlotte has never attacked another dog, she has a zero bite-history, and is not reactive to people (which are all accusations made against her in the comments). We worked closely with a trainer, she attends training classes, and, most important, she is not stressed or distressed by her environment. Reactivity is often based in fear; it’s about heightened arousal.

Reactive dogs may bark, lunge, or vocalize when pushed beyond their threshold, what they can comfortably handle. For some dogs, that’s a strange dog as far as a football field away. For others, it’s a dog being on the same sidewalk. When a dog reacts, he is saying, “Give me space!”

One of the core aspects of training a reactive dog is not punishing them for behavior we don’t like, but working together to create new, positive associations with seeing other dogs, and teaching new behaviors such as sitting and watching their handler to replace less desirable behaviors.

And, in turn, an aggressive dog doesn’t truly have limitations when it comes to who or what he will attack. If another dog or a human being approaches they will automatically lunge and behave badly. However, it must be noted that most of the time it’s because a domesticated dog has been trained to do so.

Still confused? You can visit Dogster to read more on this important topic.

In the end, make certain – whether your dog is aggressive or reactive – to have him on a leash when walking or greeting others. It will do a world of good for everyone concerned.