Becoming Leader of the Pack
The following points include low-level dominance statements that will make your dog look up to you and be your loyal loving companion.
- Think of yourself as a benevolent dictator. Your dog is a pack animal and is looking for someone to follow. It would be best for that person to be you. Be firm, not harsh, and make the decisions for your dog.
- Your puppy should happily roll over and let you pat his tummy. Every time you look at your puppy roll him over gently and firmly rub his tummy until you are ready to let him up.
- Alpha dogs never lose, so don’t let your puppy win. Start games and end them when you want to. Never play tug with your puppy. He will eventually become stronger and win that game. It also teaches to grab at your hands, which can lead to a bite. Wrestling games are puppies’ ways of testing each other’s strength. Do not wrestle with your puppy because he will figure out that he is faster and stronger.
- Alpha dogs guard territory, so your puppy should move out of your way when you come up to him.
- Alpha dogs eat first. Finish your dinner then feed your dog.
- Alpha dogs get to go first. Your puppy should never rush out the door in front of you. Make sure your puppy lets you go through doors first.
- When petting your dog be sure to hold his muzzle occasionally. Do not let him take his muzzle away from you. Holding his muzzle is a dominant act, telling your dog that you are the alpha dog.
- Use consistent tones when giving commands. Your dog should think of you as a leader and do what you say. No matter how simple the command, use firm tones to deliver and make sure your dog completes the command. Only reward your dog if he has earned it. He is only a good dog if he has done something you asked him to. Do not praise your dog for existing.
- Lying down is a submissive position, so have your dog lie down frequently.
- Dogs showing aggressive behavior should not sleep in bed with you. Make then sleep in a subordinate position on the floor.
- Lay your arm over your dog’s shoulder. This is a dominance statement.
- Dogs that are already showing aggressive behavior should not be forced to roll over, have arms placed over their shoulders or have their noses held. This can lead to bites. Do try to reward your dog for allowing you to pat his muzzle or stomach when he lies down. Reward your dog for showing submissive behavior.