Dominance Games

Whilst dominance is not the 'be all and end all' of problem behaviour, most common problems such as separation anxiety or soiling, can often be reduced or in some cases, ultimately removed when there is clear leadership in the family pack.

Dogs are very sociable animals and they naturally want to be part of a pack. Not all dogs strive to be at the top. There are plenty of dogs out there that are very comfortable with being a submissive pack member.

Dominance can show itself in different ways, in some cases it is prominent whilst in others, it is a case of mistaken identity.

Many dogs are born leaders and many are born followers. Anybody who has spent time watching litters of puppies develop will know this. The born leader, when challenged will take every available opportunity to demonstrate his position of power within the pack. Conversely, the born follower will take every available opportunity to submit to another, and be led. Therefore, those who own a dog who is a born leader, will need to make constant efforts to maintain the Alpha position. However, it is important that people realise, that if they own a dog who is a born follower, it does not necessarily mean that they can make absolutely no effort. Even the most submissive of dogs will take a leadership position if their owner does not. This is because if there is no leader, then the pack will be in danger. The dog feels that as you are not taking responsibility as his leader, he must take responsibility as yours.

The dog who displays as a natural leader may be quite pushy. Signs of a naturally dominant dog include attempting to make themselves comfortable in an elevated position, usually the bed or sofa; pushing their head into your hands for a stroke or pat; lying with their head across your feet; pushing their way past you, often in doorways etc; or blocking your path forcing you to move around them.

The dog who has taken a leadership position due to perceived necessity may present as anxious, particularly displaying a strong separation anxiety; ears usually pricked; chews on the chair leg; barks when you enter and leave; may be nervous or aggressive around strange dogs and people; and soils in the house. This does not mean you have a bad or disobedient dog, it simply means he is burdened with the responsibilities you have unwittingly placed upon him.

Whichever type of dominance your dog is displaying, here are some things you can do to achieve the role of Alpha, without any need for confrontation. If you offer these behaviours to your dog consistently, he will soon accept you as the Alpha.

If he is lying across the doorway or blocking the bottom step of the stairs, make him move out of your way.

Always eat first. Whenever you are preparing his food, make sure you eat something first. This is easiest at your own meal times. Prepare his food in an animated fashion, without words, so he knows his food is being made. Then eat yourself before immediately allowing your dog to do so.

Own the home, all the home. Make sure your dog does not sleep on the furniture or your bed. But you can and should frequently get down on the floor and sit in their bed. The Alpha decides where he sleeps.

Own all the toys. You should decide who plays with what, where, when and for how long.

Set no go areas in the house and stick to them. A good idea is to deny access to upstairs, use a gate if needed.

Don't allow your dog to rush through doorways ahead of you.

Don't get involved in strength games such as tug of war.

Effective, non-violent techniques you can use to achieve these things can be taught in class and during 1-2-1 sessions.

These methods do work but please don't expect overnight perfection. Consistency is everything and a lack of consistency using these techniques will probably make matters worse. The true leader is always consistent in all areas of life.