This is suchhhh a good point. I know that it can really change a dog's attitude when new things are introduced. There was a Dog Whisperer clip about a woman whose dog wouldnt stop clinging to her after surgery. It could sense that she was sick and that people were taking care of her and it became extremely anxious to the point that it wouldnt go to the park or let her have any footspace at all. The dog was clearly trying to protect her but it was heartbreaking to see it sacrifice itself and not be able to break focus at all. It was just too anxious to be well. Thats very much what happens when we give freedom without clear boundaries and the dog doesnt know how to handle it.
How do I stop my wonderful dog from rushing at people who drive up to our country property. She never hurts anybody and she's really great about many commands but she will not stay if we are outdoors. She will pull hard on a leash till she is literally vertical. Then they will be best friends. It's a who goes there bark which is fine but physically leaves me and rushes toward anyone who drives up unexpectedly.
