Final answer:
A dog showing arousal yet responding well to cues is in a state of conditioned response, which is a learned behavior from associative learning, such as Pavlov's salivation experiment. These responses are optimized within a zone of arousal where attention and performance are maximized.
Step-by-step explanation:
A dog exhibiting some arousal while responding well to cues is most likely in a state of conditioned response. In the context of Pavlov's experiments, where dogs were conditioned to salivate upon hearing a bell, we understand this response to be a result of associative learning. A neutral stimulus (the bell) that was paired with an unconditioned stimulus (food) eventually becomes a conditioned stimulus, prompting a conditioned response (salivation) from the dog. Such responses are typically seen when an animal is not overly stressed or fearful but is alert and attentive, able to follow cues or commands effectively.
When considering a dog's state of activity based on emotional state, the concept of optimal arousal is also relevant. As depicted in Figure 10.6, performance on tasks is maximized at an optimal level of arousal. If a dog is in a heightened state of arousal but still performing well, it could be seen as being within this optimal arousal zone, capable of executing learned behaviors while maintaining a certain level of excitement or alertness.