Unexpected aggression

[Goodythreeshoes]

I'm on holiday with my DDog. He's a two year old lab. Still a bit scatty on occasions but has settled down and is a lovely, nice natured boy.
We've been taking advantage of some nice weather and were outside a pub this afternoon. DDog is getting better at not invading others peoples space, but still loves a fuss when it's offered. Until today that is.
A chap caught us both by surprise and started petting DDog. I may have jumped at that point. If I see anyone approach, I'll normally have treats at the ready as a distraction if DDog gets a bit over enthusiastic and bouncy.
DDog growled, barked and generally behaved in a really aggressive way.
We left immediately. I'm really upset by what happened. I wish the guy had just left us alone. I've only just regained my confidence and felt comfortable taking DDog out by myself.
Just that really. Not looking for any answers, just a bit upset.

[MsAdorabelleDearheartVonLipwig]

Just sounds like he caught him unawares. I wish people would think before randomly touching strange dogs. My dog probably wouldn't like it either.

[TheoriginalLEM]

He made you jump. he made your dog jump. his reaction was proportional

[Goodythreeshoes]

I'm overreacting, like DDog :)

[stonecircle]

Good boy. He's protecting you and warning the man to back off. The man shouldn't have made you both jump and hopefully might think about how best to approach a dog in future.