Unfortunately, I have THE worst guard dogs/watch dogs in the world. These two wouldn't run away from a man with a gun, they'd sit and wait for the burglar to throw it so they can chase it and bring it back then expect belly rubs as a reward! So the answer is yes, they're friendly. Too friendly.
As for your predicament, that I'm not to sure of from personal experience. My dogs have always been friendly just by nature. I even have to admit, training hasn't really been the reason either. I think I just get soft dogs. I had a Pit Bull mix once who was afraid of my cat, who was afraid of him.
However, my grandparents had a little Chihuahua for quite a few years and he was very temperamental. He'd growl and yap his head off when you arrived at the door and until he really got to know you, he would continue. Even then he had his bad moods that you had to be careful not to annoy him. I never could figure out why except for the explanation that he was spoiled rotten. If fact, it's sadly what made him pass at the end...he was overweight (grossly) and had a heart attack. They never walked him in his mid-later years so he didn't get much exercise. Anyway, off topic a little. I would say maybe it's a small breed thing? I've noticed that a lot of people don't really socialize or bother to "train" toy breeds much beyond housebreaking because of their size. That, and small breeds lack the perception that they're small...hence why you'll see a Chihuahua taking on a Rottweiler in a lot of cases and not blink an eye. They truly see they're the same size.
Do you live with your aunt or does this usually happen when you're visiting?
