Reactive dogs that lunge and bark on leash are usually fear-based rather than aggressive and respond to systematic desensitization and counter-conditioning.
Reactive dogs experience genuine fear and stress during reactive episodes - cortisol surges, heart rate spikes, and the emotional state of panic or anxiety. Dogs labeled as 'aggressive' for reactive behavior are often suffering from fear rather than expressing dominance. The walk, which should be enriching, becomes a source of chronic stress for reactive dogs. Welfare-centered treatment addresses the underlying emotional state rather than suppressing the warning signal through punishment.