Dogs Are Like Kids; They Need Leadership
Dogs live in packs in the wild. These canine packs have a natural hierarchy of leadership, dominance and submissiveness. Through a complex play of strategy and aggression, natural leaders emerge to lead the packs. The dogs are called ‘Alpha” dogs. It is their job to make sure the dogs work together towards their common goals.
With domestic dogs, the same urges and instincts are present. They will either be dominant or submissive. Problems can arise if a domestic dog begins to believe he is the leader of the pack. It is your job to provide the leadership necessary to prevent this. You have to leave no doubts that you are in charge of the pack and will tolerate no insubordination.
All teams need and crave leaders. The home is no exception. But being the leader brings with it responsibility. You have to display the characteristics of a leader. You must be disciplined and consistent to come off as a leader to your dog. Once you have those qualities you will earn the dog’s respect and your home will be a much more orderly place.
Leadership is such an integral part of a dog’s life that they need this in order to feel safe and happy. Many owners believe the dog is looking for a friend, while in fact they are looking for someone to take charge. Naturally dominant dogs will sense a vacuum in the leadership structure if you are not providing it. They will try to take the role and can become aggressive. Many dogs get aggressive protecting their toys or dog beds.
Though one person will come out as the top of the pack, there exists a hierarchy also. Other members of the family must ensure that they take their natural place in the upper levels of the structure. Kids must be taught about their role as a leader. Use this opportunity to teach kids about responsibility and what it means to be a leader. The dog will have no problem with that as long as the child behaves responsibly.
Most of the behavioral problems associated with dogs stems from a problem in the hierarchy. If your dog is acting up you need to reexamine the power situation in the home. Just like children can develop behavioral problems in homes where the parents fight, dogs can also be affected. The dog views the fighting as a battle for dominance. It is confused as to who is at the top. If only the dog could understand the woman is always at the top.
It is important that all family members understand that the dog needs discipline and consistency. Get everyone on the same plan before you even bring the dog home. Planning makes all the difference.