Dog Hierarchy: Leader or Submissive?

An "alpha dog" is literally the leader of the pack, and will be the one to whom all other dogs submit and obey. When you own a dog, you want to make sure you're the alpha dog in your own home, or your pooch will be happy to fill the role for you. Dogs are happy and secure when they know their place, even if it's not as the leader. With your leadership role strongly and obviously in place, your dog will be able to relax and enjoy his time with you.

Ways to Assert That You're the Leader in the Dog Hierarchy

1. Never give in to your dog. In training or even casual play, don't let your dog disobey you without correction. There's no need to be mean or angry, but always firm and in control.
2. Don't ever allow your dog to growl or snap at you. This is dominant behavior, and a dog who growls or snaps is trying to win the battle of leadership.
3. Get your dog used to being handled. A dog who knows his place will allow you to turn him over on his back, rub his belly, handle his paws and even open his mouth with your hand.
4. Make eye contact with your dog. The stare is usually the right of the alpha dog, so make sure you use it with your dog to remind him that you control him. Note: Don't do this with a dog who is still asserting his own alpha ness; it could result in a stare-down.
5. Don't let him challenge your authority. Your dog should obey you in all cases, and many will test those boundaries much like rebellious teenagers searching for a reaction. Make sure you correct any rebellion firmly and quickly.

If your dog growls or snaps at you and you're hesitant or fearful of correcting him, then he is already the alpha dog, and he knows it. Consult a professional for help in changing the dog hierarchy in your home. If you don't, you'll always have a struggle of wills with your dog and neither of you will be fully happy.

This may all sound a little harsh to you as a new dog owner, but you need to remember that with all the centuries of specialized breeding and domestication, dogs crave a real leader. They are happier and more secure when they know their place, and know who their leader is. They want a leader who understands the dog hierarchy and who will be fair and consistent and never back down. They enjoy knowing what's expected of them and delivering it to get praise and treats.