Why did my nervous rescue dog snap at a neighbor without warning?

Question

We rescued 2 littermates a little over a year ago. They are nervous around strangers, but we are making great improvements with confidence. Tonight, the more confident of the pair snapped at our neighbor. There were no warning growls or barks, which is her usual way of telling people to back off. I didn't see the incident as I was tending her more nervous sister, but the neighbor claimed he just tried to pet her and she snapped. She is spayed and just got a clean bill of health from our vet. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed | 5 years and 1 month old

Maria DVM · Accepted Answer

I highly recommend consulting with a trainer. A trainer will be able to walk with you and see what is going on. Was it how Angel was approach? Was she being protective? did she not like something? There are a lot of unanswered questions that we may never know during this situation but with a trainer then can recreate the situation and help work with you and both dogs to make sure it doesn't happen again. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Why did my nervous rescue dog snap at a neighbor without warning?

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