[dwd1]

There is a point to be made that dogs are territorial but they are also protective... Most dogs reflect their training and their experiences....

I do not think not being around someone different is enough... I think there has to be a hostile act or perceived threat or challenge in which case the dog is relying on his experience or a hostile or nervous reaction which would stimulate a protective response

But, with negative and/or positive reinforcement from the owner, behavior can be shaped in any direction....

[Texaggie79]

exactly. Just as my grandfather praised his dog every time it growled at a black person.