It seems to me that dogs have the same problem as me. Their conscious mind is not in charge either.

My dog, Chispa, spent quite a few years on the street before she moved in with me.  I believe that experience made her a little cautious and defensive.  Being a chihuahua dachshund mix (and somewhat small) she will not make a front-on attack.  She prefers you ankles as you walk away.

Chispa also loves to be petted and held.  In fact, second to food, this is her heart’s desire.  Many people would love to indulge her, yet her defensiveness keeps them away.  This is another example of fear ruling one’s actions over rational thought.

The extreme example of her subconscious mind taking charge of her is how she behaves with new friends.  Sometimes when I have a visitor over she warms up enough to allow them them to pet her.  She might even be open to sitting in their laps.  Then, as they get up to leave, she will attack them from behind.  What is she thinking?

She is not thinking, she has the same problem I talked about yesterday.  Our conscious minds are not in control or our actions.