1. Vizsla
Vizslas can exhibit reactive behaviors due to their high energy levels and strong prey drive. This breed often has a strong desire to seek out and chase prey because of their hunting instinct. In situations where they are restricted or unable to fulfill this drive, it can manifest as reactive behavior, such as excessive excitement or anxiety.



2. Dalmatian
One of the most reactive dog breeds can also be a Dalmatian. They are known for their high energy and need for movement. This can make them easily excitable, and their reactive behavior can make them difficult to handle in certain situations.



3. Border Collie
The Border Collie is renowned not only for its intelligence but also for its spirited nature. As a highly intuitive breed, they possess an instinctual drive to assess and respond to situations with remarkable speed. This reactivity, paired with their inherent intelligence, can sometimes result in them becoming overwhelmed, especially in unfamiliar environments. However, when guided with patience and clear instructions, these energetic dogs excel in a variety of activities, from agility to advanced obedience tasks. Ensuring that a Border Collie is well-trained and appropriately socialized is key to channeling their abundant energy and quick thinking into productive and enjoyable interactions. With the right approach, they thrive in a loving environment where their unique skills are cherished and appreciated.

Border Collies are even more motion-sensitive than Australian Shepherds. Many Border Collie owners struggle with their dog’s obsession over anything that moves, from cars to cats, to behaviors such as shadow chasing inside the home. Border Collies were originally developed to herd sheep in the hills of Scotland. As such, they were not bred to be very outgoing dogs, and they often struggle with being overwhelmed by stimuli in urban environments.



4. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua, despite its tiny stature, often exhibits a larger-than-life personality. Known for their endearing nature but sometimes dramatic demeanor, these little dogs are quick to form deep attachments with their human companions. This close bond can lead them to become protective, sometimes overly so of their home and loved ones. Chihuahuas tend to act as self-appointed guardians, resulting in heightened reactivity to a variety of stimuli, particularly when new visitors arrive. This behavior is frequently viewed as overreactive, as their eager attempts to alert owners might include barking or posturing that others perceive as excessive. Dog aggression in Chihuahuas is often linked to fear and anxiety, emphasizing the importance of understanding and managing these behaviors. However, with the right approach, incorporating positive reinforcement and compassionate guidance, owners can help channel their Chihuahua's bold spirit into sweet, loyal companionship that is cherished within the home.



5 German Shepherd
German Shepherds are very intelligent, high-energy dogs that were originally bred for herding and protection. While they have become popular as pet dogs, many owners do not realize that their original instincts remain very strong. These traits can make them wonderful companions when their needs are met but challenging if they are misunderstood or untrained. Unfortunately, there are also many poorly bred German Shepherds available, often produced by backyard breeders who do not prioritize behavioral health or good temperament. This can lead to dogs with thin nerves, poor temperaments, and increased reactivity. German Shepherds are naturally wary of strangers and will require significant positive exposure and socialization as they grow up to feel confident and comfortable in their surroundings.



5. Maltese
Maltese dogs are small companion breeds and, as such, are not necessarily predisposed to reactive tendencies. However, unfortunately, many toy dog breeders do not select parents for docile temperaments. Additionally, many dog owners underestimate the necessity of socializing their small companion breed dogs, such as the Maltese. These dogs can be very sensitive to their environment, which makes them more reactive than some might expect for a toy breed. Finally, when other breeds are mixed with a Maltese, their reactivity can be amplified depending on the traits inherited from the other parent breeds.



6. Jack Russel Terrier
A lot of dog owners mistake Jack Russell Terriers for an easy and low-maintenance breed, but this could not be further from the truth. Jack Russell Terriers were originally bred in England in the 19th century as working dogs for hunting vermin and foxes. Their job required them to fearlessly pursue prey into burrows and flush them out for hunters. This background has instilled in them a high prey drive, boundless energy, and a fearless nature. Jack Russell Terriers are absolutely not an easygoing, lap-dog breed. If you own a Jack Russell Terrier, you should be prepared for a dog with an intense prey drive, high intelligence and a lot of energy. If their needs for adequate physical and mental exercise are not met, they will very likely become destructive, bored, and reactive. Jack Russell Terriers are feisty and unafraid of dogs much larger than themselves. As such, they often get into trouble, for example, with fence fighting or reactive confrontations.



7. Belgian Malinois
The Belgian Malinois is a working dog through and through, with boundless energy and a strong instinct to stay busy all day long. Renowned for their role in law enforcement, these dogs are highly disciplined and incredibly loyal. With their agile bodies and sharp minds, they excel in various demanding tasks. However, without sufficient attention or mental and physical stimulation, they may become reactive to their surroundings, reacting to even minor stimuli. Their reactivity is often a call for engagement and purpose, underscoring the need for owners to provide them with structured activities and ample outlets for their exuberance, ensuring a well-balanced and happy companion. Proper dog training and early socialization are crucial for managing the Belgian Malinois' reactivity.



8. Husky
Huskies were originally bred to be working sled dogs. As such, they are predisposed to get along very well with other dogs, as they were often kept in large groups and worked together in sled teams. However, what many people may not realize is that Huskies, while popular as pets in recent decades, are not well-suited for the typical home environment. Huskies have incredibly high exercise needs and were bred to run tirelessly for many miles a day. In most households, it’s simply not possible to provide this level of physical activity. As a result, Huskies often become understimulated, which can lead to a variety of unwanted behaviors such as digging holes, fence running, or developing reactivity. With the right amount of socialization, exposure, and exercise, Huskies can be very friendly and social dogs. However, it is essential to meet their needs to prevent behavioral issues.



9. Dachshund
Like many other dogs on this list, Dachshunds were originally bred to be tirelessly hard-working dogs. They were created to scent, chase, and flush out badgers during hunts. As such, while Dachshunds might look cute and amusing, they are intense little dogs with fearless personalities. They require a significant amount of mental and physical stimulation to meet their needs. Dachshunds often become reactive when dog owners fail to recognize their breed-specific traits and mistakenly believe these dogs can simply be lap pets without proper training or exercise. This could not be further from the truth. Unlike some other working breeds, a bored Dachshund will engage in behaviors you won't like, whether that is digging, barking excessively, or becoming reactive. Additionally, as a small dog, early signs of reactivity, such as barking on leash walks, are frequently ignored. This often allows the behavior to persist and worsen over time, making it more difficult to address later.



10. Chinese Shar-Pei
With quick wits and plenty of smarts, most people are surprised to see how intensely aware the Shar Pei is of their surroundings even when nothing special or exciting is happening. This protective breed tends to spend most of their time patrolling when spending time at home. While outdoors, they tend to be reactive to the sight of strange dogs, especially those that are running and/or playing.








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11. Bernedoodle
The Bernedoodle is a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle. These dogs have become increasingly popular over the last decade for their cute appearance and their tendency to be low shedding or not shedding at all. However, many dog owners underestimate that these dogs are still a cross of two working breeds. As such, the Bernadoodle does require plenty of mental and physical stimulation as well as positive exposure to their environment. Poodles, in particular, are dogs that are highly intelligent and quite sensitive.



12. Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds are typically gentle giants, known for their calm and friendly demeanor. However, their large size and protective instincts can sometimes lead to reactivity. These dogs may become reactive if they sense a potential threat to their family or territory. Their sheer size can make their reactions more intimidating, even if their intentions are protective rather than aggressive. Proper socialization and training from an early age can help minimize their reactivity and encourage them to be confident and well-behaved companions.



13. Boxer
The Boxer, characterized by its playful spirit and zest for life, thrives on activity and exploration. Bred for work, these spirited dogs are happiest when they have a task or challenge to focus on, as their curiosity and high energy levels propel them into action. Whether it's a game of fetch, agility training, or an exploratory walk, Boxers are always eager to engage with the world around them. However, their lively disposition can sometimes translate to reactivity in public settings, particularly when they encounter unfamiliar people or other dogs. It is essential to provide them with proper socialization and consistent training to channel their exuberance positively. With gentle guidance and plenty of opportunities to engage their minds and bodies, Boxers transform into affectionate and joyful companions, dedicated to their families and always ready for the next adventure.



14. Greyhound
Greyhounds are also among the most reactive dog breeds, in our opinion, due to their strong prey drive. This prey drive, which is pronounced in Greyhounds, causes them to be particularly responsive to fast movements or animals they may perceive as potential prey. This can lead to them exhibiting reactive behavior in certain situations, such as excessive excitement or anxiety.



15. Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees dogs are a livestock guardian breed. They were originally created to guard herds of livestock very independently and defend them against any threats and intruders. As such, these dogs are protective and observant of their environment, and genetically predisposed to notice anything that they deem a threat. They will bark a lot. In the last two decades, Great Pyrenees have become more and more popular as pet dogs. Unfortunately, their genetics do not make them a perfect fit to live in a backyard in an urban environment. They will be very triggered by people, cars, and other dogs passing by. In order to raise your Great Pyrenees to not be overly protective of your home and to reduce barking, you will need to invest significant time and effort into creating positive exposures and desensitizing them toward triggers.



16. Golden Retriever
We typically know Golden Retrievers for their friendly and gentle nature, but they can also be prone to reactive behavior. Therefore, they are also considered one of the most reactive dog breeds by us. Their strong prey drive can make them reactive towards other animals, and they may become overly excited or anxious in certain situations. Additionally, their heightened playfulness can lead to reactive behavior.



17. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are typically known for their friendly and easy-going nature, but they can also be prone to reactive behavior. Their high energy levels and strong prey drive can make them reactive towards other animals, and they may become overly excited or anxious in certain situations.



18. Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd, a breed developed from British herding dogs, embodies a vibrant and energetic spirit that brightens up any household. These lively dogs have a strong work ethic and thrive when given a purpose, often excelling in tasks that challenge both body and mind. To maintain their balanced temperament, Australian Shepherds require plenty of daily exercise and thoughtful interaction. Whether it is going for a long walk, playing fetch in the yard, or learning new commands, keeping them engaged is crucial to their happiness. With their keen intelligence and eagerness to please, they form deep bonds with those who provide them with the love and attention they need. Providing an environment filled with both physical activity and mental stimulation allows these dogs to flourish, resulting in a devoted companion who is as content lounging at your feet as they are herding sheep in the open fields. The Australian Shepherd is an intelligent breed that requires appropriate training and socialization to ensure the best behavior.



19. Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Pinschers can be reactive dogs due to their high intelligence, energy, and strong protective instincts. They are naturally alert and protective, which can lead to overreactive behavior in certain situations. When they perceive potential threats, they may bark, growl, or exhibit aggressive behavior. Proper training and socialization are crucial to control their behavior and ensure they minimize reactive tendencies.



20. Bull Terrier
Bull terriers can be prone to reactivity, particularly towards other dogs, though this is often linked to anxiety rather than inherent aggression. Proper socialization and training from a young age, along with managing their energy levels, can significantly improve their behavior.



21. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are typically known for their friendly and affectionate nature. However, they can also be prone to reactive behavior. This behavior can stem from their innate sensitivity and their need for attention. When they feel neglected or insecure, they may exhibit reactive behaviors such as barking, howling, or excessive clinginess. It is essential to train and socialize them properly to boost their self-confidence and minimize reactive tendencies.



22. Aussiedoodle
Similarly to the Bernadoodle, the Aussie Doodle is also a cross of two capable working breeds: the Australian Shepherd and the Poodle. As already discussed, Australian Shepherds are very motion-sensitive and also develop noise reactivity quickly. The Poodle, on the other hand, is a sensitive dog that tends to be easily worried. The combination of the two results in a dog that can be very sensitive toward the environment while at the same time brimming with energy and activity. Aussiedoodles may look like an adorable teddy bear, but they are very capable working dogs that require a lot of mental and physical stimulation.



23. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are typically friendly and playful, but they can also be reactive, especially to unfamiliar people or loud noises. This breed can be quick to bark or become anxious when faced with new situations. While they’re not usually aggressive, their reactivity can be problematic if they’re not properly trained or socialized. Please Note: This content was created with the assistance of AI and thoroughly edited by a human before publishing.



24. Boerboel
Boerboels are typically known for their strong and protective nature. However, they can also be prone to reactive behavior. Their innate protective instinct can lead to overreactive behavior, especially when they perceive potential threats. In such situations, they may tend to bark aggressively or exhibit defensive behavior. Careful training and socialization are important to control their behavior and ensure it is appropriate.



25. English Bulldog
Originally bred for the brutal sport of bull baiting, the English Bulldog has undergone a significant transformation over the centuries. While its muscular build and tenacious spirit nod to its past, today's bulldog is a gentle companion, cherished by families for its affectionate and calm nature. Despite its mellow demeanor, the bulldog's protective instincts can surface, especially during meal times or when guarding cherished toys. It is essential for owners to be understanding and consistent in setting boundaries, as this helps curb any possessive tendencies. When guided with warmth and empathy, the English Bulldog can grow into a loving and loyal family member, harmoniously blending its historical strength with a modern-day tenderness.



26. Akita
The Akita is an independent and strong-willed breed, often shining as a loyal and devoted companion for individuals who understand their unique temperament. While they may pose a challenge for first-time dog owners due to their assertive nature, those experienced with canines can find great joy in sharing their lives with an Akita. They require a confident and active owner who can provide ample mental and physical stimulation to channel their energies positively. Akitas may not be the most sociable with other pets, particularly those they haven’t grown up alongside, which can lead to reactivity in unfamiliar situations. For the inexperienced, managing this reactivity can be demanding. Strong leadership is crucial for managing aggressive dogs like the Akita to prevent potential dangers. But for those with the patience and dedication to nurture their Akita’s potential, the reward is a steadfast and devoted companion who cherishes their role within the family.



27. German Shorthaired Pointer
German Shorthaired Pointers are highly active and athletic dogs, but they can also be prone to reactivity. Their high energy levels and strong prey drive can make them reactive towards other animals, and they may become overly excited or anxious in certain situations.



28. Pekingese
You can also consider Pekingese among the most reactive dog breeds. They are small dogs with big personalities, but they can also be prone to reactive behavior. Due to their small size, they may feel vulnerable and anxious, leading to reactive behaviors towards other dogs or people.



29. American Pit Bull
While Pit Bulls are often misunderstood and unfairly labeled, they can be highly reactive dogs, especially if they haven’t been socialized correctly. Their strong protective instincts make them prone to guarding behavior, and they can become reactive when they perceive a threat to their family or home. However, with proper training and positive reinforcement, Pit Bulls can be calm, friendly, and well-mannered.



30. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are particularly known for their keen sense of smell, but they can also be prone to reactive behavior. They easily get distracted by scents and may react to other dogs or people when they feel threatened or scared.



31. Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdogs, or Shelties, are similar to the Border Collie in that they have strong herding instincts. They are known for being highly intelligent and responsive, but this can make them reactive, especially to new people or animals. Shelties tend to bark when they sense something unfamiliar and may react by guarding or attempting to herd those around them.



32. Rottweiler
The Rottweiler is a robust and devoted breed that embodies both playfulness and a strong work ethic. With a reputation for being steadfastly loyal, they form deep bonds with their families, acting as affectionate companions and reliable protectors. However, when left to their own devices without sufficient guidance or stimulation, Rottweilers can become mischievous, indulging in behaviors that might be seen as challenging or overly reactive to various stimuli. This reactivity often stems from their natural instinct to be aware of their surroundings and ensure the safety of their loved ones. Therefore, it is crucial for Rottweiler owners to lead with a firm, loving, and patient hand, providing the structure and direction these intelligent dogs thrive upon. Distinguishing between a reactive and an aggressive dog is important for proper training and management.



33. Cane Corso
The Cane Corso, known for its imposing presence and stalwart demeanor, is a breed steeped in loyalty and affection for its family. This majestic guardian possesses an innate protective instinct, making them vigilant watchkeepers over their loved ones and property. Their impressive intelligence and robust physique require early socialization and ongoing training to channel their natural guarding tendencies in a balanced manner. By nurturing these traits from puppyhood and maintaining consistent guidance through adulthood, owners can foster a respectful companion who embodies both gentleness and strength. With patience and understanding, the Cane Corso can flourish into a devoted protector, offering unwavering loyalty and companionship to those they hold dear. Similar to German Shepherds, Cane Corsos are highly intelligent and capable working dogs, necessitating proper training and socialization to manage their potential reactivity and ensure they receive adequate physical and mental stimulation.



34. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are friendly and affectionate, but they can also be quite reactive, especially if they sense that something is wrong. Their sensitivity to sounds, changes in routine, or new environments can lead to anxiety-driven behaviors, including barking, hiding, or even snapping. This breed often requires extra attention to ensure they are socialized properly.



35. Mastiff
The Mastiff, with its imposing stature and gentle demeanor, is truly a gentle giant among dog breeds. Despite their significant size, Mastiffs are known for their well-mannered and sociable nature, especially when training begins at a young age. They exude a calm confidence that often acts as a deterrent to potential threats without the need for aggression. While Mastiffs generally avoid conflict, they possess an inherent protective instinct that compels them to defend their loved ones if necessary. This sensitive breed can sometimes react out of fear in unfamiliar situations, which underscores the importance of positive and consistent training. Embracing their sensitive nature with understanding and kindness allows these majestic dogs to thrive as loyal, affectionate companions who bring warmth and security to their families.



36. Thai Ridgeback
Thai Ridgebacks are not inherently reactive but can exhibit reactive behaviors if not properly socialized and trained. They are intelligent and independent dogs with strong guarding and protective instincts. This, combined with their high prey drive, can lead to reactive behaviors if these instincts are not properly managed through consistent training and early socialization.



37. Shepherd Crosses
We are listing shepherd crosses separately from German Shepherds because of the vast variety of different shepherd crosses. Unfortunately, a lot of rescue dogs and dogs in shelters around the country are shepherd crosses of some sort. These dogs are often unintentionally bred or bred by irresponsible backyard breeders. They are then abandoned during their adolescence when owners are overwhelmed with their training and activity needs. As shepherds, they have a territorial streak and want to protect their home and family. Without adequate training, this can quickly become unmanageable. Like German Shepherds, shepherd crosses have very high needs for mental and physical stimulation. If these are not fulfilled, these dogs become bored, destructive, and very reactive. It should not be underestimated that a significant number of shepherds and shepherd crosses suffer from hip dysplasia. This can be a significantly painful condition and, as such, also contribute to reactive behavior.



38. Multi-Breed Mixes
As the name suggests, multi-mixed breeds are a cross of several different breeds. These are the types of dogs that you might usually find at a shelter or through rescues. While many different breed traits are condensed in these dogs, and it is impossible to say which trait exactly they got from one ancestor, they frequently combine different territorial and guarding instincts. A lot of multi-mixed breeds, for example, have herding dogs in their pedigree or guard dogs. As such, they are predisposed to dislike intrusion into their territory.