There’s a myth that still runs deep in the way we interpret dogs: that every lick is a sign of love. A kiss. A sweet gesture. That if your dog is licking you, it must mean they adore you.

But that’s not always true.

Struggling with your dog’s barking, lunging, or growling? Learn why focusing too much on the “why” behind reactivity can keep you stuck—and what to do instead.

“I’m tired of unraveling my fetch fanatic, bossy, controlling, resource-guarding Aussie Shepherd. It’s exhausting.”

That makes so much sense—and if you’re feeling this too, you’re far from alone. This messy, high-intensity dynamic is incredibly common in herding breeds (like Aussies, Border Collies, Heelers), but it also shows up in many other driven dogs, regardless of breed.