Loki never had to go into a defensive or even an offensive position. She would take her cues from me, if I was "normal" she would be fine. IF I was a little apprehensive, she would get into a cautious stance, and keep checking the surroundings. But I cannot remember her ever getting her hackles raised.
There was one time I "tested" her. I came home late, walked into the back yard and had a light behind me ( so she could not make out my features). Was wearing a London Fog Trench coat, as it was winter, and the wind was not in her direction. She came out into view, stopped about 15 feet from me, and stood her ground. Obviously checking me out, trying to figure out what I was doing there, and letting me make the first move.
I had the position of dominance, ( eyes being above her eye elvel, ), She was on three feet, the right front foot off the ground... ready to make a move - if needed. But she had lowered her head, and tail was straight down. ( Cues, that she is not playing. She was actually analyzing me, and letting me know that she is serious.) As she leaned slightly towards me, I squatted down, so I was at her eye level... This had an immediate reaction, she eased back, slightly raised her head... But held her ground. Remember she still could not smell me, hear me, as I was not talking, and could not make out any details to help her figure out who I was. This lasted a few minutes, till I whispered one word.... Loki!.
She immediately sparked up. Head held high, ears forwards, and tail swatting flies in all directions. This was immediately followed by her bounding to me in two giant leaps, and knocking my over on my back... I was in almost hysterical laughter, as Loki was busy licking my face, and greeting me in a wonderful bear hug and play time wrestle.
Had not thought about that in years. LOL.
I hope that answers your question, Diana :)
