George was a pretty timid puppy.
At puppy school, he hid in his travel crate until he built up a bit of confidence.
So his initial reaction was flight. This changed over the first few months (see 'What do George's reactions look like').
I have to say that the reaction I struggle with the most is the lunging.
Barking is loud, sure, and at home it seriously tested my mental health when it was constant, but the lunging looks so aggressive. It looks like you're not in control. In my mind anyway.
I don't think I'd mind so much if he barked at the neighbours if it wasn't accompanied by lunging. Or at dogs on walks.
I've got a bit better at dealing with it mentally (see 'Dealing with the embarrassment').
But of course, it actually is more dangerous. He's more likely to hurt someone or himself if he's moving, even if it's inadvertent.
Maybe I'm more conscious of it since the leg collision (see 'An emotional wobble').
But the risk of him getting into trouble is higher with the lunge.
So yes, out of the barking, running away, hyperventilating, growling...the lunging is my least favourite reaction.
It doesn't matter what I think of course. It's about supporting George through the moment.