Is that rescue dog aggressive, or is he simply scared?
On this episode of Rescue Tales, Robert Forto and Robin Lucas take a closer look at one of the most misunderstood behaviors in rescue dogs: fear that looks like aggression. In the stressful environment of a shelter or kennel, barking, lunging, spinning, freezing, cowering, lip licking, and other behaviors can easily lead people to label a dog as aggressive when the dog may actually be trying to create distance from something that makes him uncomfortable.
Robert and Robin discuss why labels can follow rescue dogs long after the circumstances that created them have changed. They also explain practical ways that handlers, volunteers, fosters, and adopters can reduce pressure by changing their own body language, giving the dog more physical space, avoiding forced interactions, and using food without requiring the dog to approach or take treats directly from the hand.
Then, in this week's Rescue Tale, Robin introduces Hotch, a Jindo mix who has spent years at Rebel Rescue South Korea. To a stranger approaching his kennel, Hotch can appear intimidating as he barks, lunges, spins, and tries to make the person back away. With people he knows and trusts, however, Robin describes a completely different dog. His story is a powerful example of why a dog's behavior in one stressful environment should not automatically define who that dog is.
This episode was recorded on the Shure SM7B
Support the Show
Like this episode? Share it with your dog training friends!
Love this episode? Say thanks in true dog training podcasting style by leaving a review.
FREE! Grab our 7-Day Real-World Dog Training Plan
Learn more about Rebel Rescue South Korea
We work with Dog Training Clients worldwide!
Take our Understanding Drive Behaviors quiz to see exactly what drive your dog is in and how to begin to train for it.
Join the On-Air Dog Training Coaching waitlist for a chance to be coached on the air by Dr. Robert or Michele Forto and get your dog training questions answered in real time.
Sign up now for 20% off our Group Coaching Program and learn how to build the best relationship possible for your dog.
Take your dog training to the next level by enrolling in our Peak Performance membership.
Follow Dog Works Radio for more dog training tips: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn
©2009-2026 by Dog Works Training Company® All Rights Reserved.
