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Dog Works Radio is your home for canine sports, working dogs and training advice! 

Feb 24, 2026

What are “zombie dogs” and why do some dogs suddenly seem aggressive, disconnected, or completely out of control?

In this episode of Dog Works Radio, professional dog trainers Dr. Robert and Michele Forto break down the viral idea of “zombie dogs” and explore the real dog behavior issues that often cause owners to describe their dogs this way.

Learn about fear-based behavior, overstimulation, canine stress signals, reactivity, prey drive, neurological concerns, and the environmental triggers that can make a dog appear unpredictable or “possessed.” You’ll also hear why social media often spreads dangerous myths about aggressive dogs, dominance, and canine behavior problems.

This episode covers:

  • What people mean when they say “zombie dogs”
  • Why some dogs suddenly change their behavior
  • Fear, stress, and overstimulation in dogs
  • The difference between aggression and reactivity
  • Warning signs owners often miss
  • Why dogs “shut down” emotionally
  • Breed tendencies and behavior genetics
  • How poor training and inconsistent structure create behavior problems
  • What to do if your dog seems unpredictable
  • How real-world dog training builds confidence and stability

Plus, Dr. Robert and Michele discuss the emotional side of living with difficult dogs, the role of leadership and communication, and why understanding behavior matters more than labeling dogs as “bad.”

Dog Works Radio is produced by Alaska Dog Works and features real-world dog training, canine behavior education, service dog training, puppy training, and honest conversations about life with dogs.

If you enjoy episodes about dog behavior, reactive dogs, canine psychology, aggression, and real-world dog training, follow Dog Works Radio wherever you listen to podcasts.

Learn more at DogWorksRadio.com

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