One other point that can be misinterpreted here is that we “prefer” a defensive dog. We don’t necessarily prefer a defensive dog…we prefer a balanced dog. The trend in helperwork across the country over the past decade has been to always encourage and focus on the easy stuff which is prey and play and then hope the dog “has it” when it turns 2yrs old. We believe in balanced training and we believe the aggressive and defensive dogs are truly needed for the gene pool and the long term viability of our various working breeds.

So upon first introduction to a dog we will try to categorize him according to his dominant natural response to various stimuli. In order to categorize each dog we begin with several basic stimuli…in no certain order: fast movement, playful & friendly postures, dominant postures, physical threat, etc. The “prey dog” notices quick movement and his natural response to that stimulus is active and he moves forward and chases movement in a instinctive effort to catch prey. While the “play dog” sees the same fast movements and his natural response may not show he is strongly compelled to chase. We try some playful gestures to get him engaged. His response to these gestures is reactive in that he offers friendly displays in response to our gestures looking for positive social interaction. He is interested in playing with the helper and often will play a friendly game if the helper initiates one. The “aggressive dog” may see the previous two stimuli (movement and playful gestures) and may not be very responsive, but when he sees a dominant posturing stance from the helper his active natural response is forward with dominant posturing of his own. His response shows he is interested in dominance and maintaining an alpha position over this new helper. The aggressive dog is motivated to maintain his position and make the opponent show avoidance. A defensive dog sees the previous three stimuli and may not be very responsive, but now with an actual threat, he reacts strongly to defend his territory, his handler, or himself by making an aggressive response. His goal is to make the threatening individual leave.

The differences can be subtle, but if you look closely theyre there.

I believe I have a pretty good understanding of the difference between a prey dog and a defensive dog but am a little unclear when it comes to the aggressive vs defensive types, and even more so unsure with the differences between a prey dog vs play dog…Fine line? Splitting hairs? Just looking to have a more clear understanding of the differences…would any of you guys care to elaborate? Thanks and keep up the good work both here and on the field!

Balanced dogs are more likely to be proactive and will not Rely on stimulus from the helper. That is the goal