If you’re trying to get inside the head of your furry pal, Rover, there’s one thing you need to keep in mind: Dogs are descendants of wolves. They are pack animals, who survive by instincts and a strict hierarchy. They communicate almost entirely through body language. They also have territory that they need to protect.
A wolf pack consists of two dominant animals- the alpha male and the alpha female. These two individuals are not only in charge of the rest of the pack, but they also get the best of everything. The alpha pair will eat first, be the first to explore new territory, have the best place to sleep, chew the best bones, and are allowed to breed. The other wolves in the pack only get to eat when the alphas are finished eating, get to sleep where the alphas leave room, and so on and so forth.
Whether you have one dog, or a pack of dogs like I do, there is always a pack leader. In order to enjoy your relationship with Fido, it is essential for the both of you that you become your dog’s alpha. Keep in mind, this doesn’t mean to beat your dog, or force him into submission. Becoming the alpha is 100% psychological, and so subtle most people probably don’t realize it when their dog is in charge of them. Read over the following questions and answer them honestly:
Is your dog the first to walk in or out of the door?
Does he growl if you take his food away?
What about her toys? Will she bite if you come too close to them?
Does she sit on the couch if you’re eating a tv dinner?
Does he pull you down the road when you take him on walks?
Does he only sit when you have a treat?
Do you have to tell her four or five times to do something before she does it?
If you’ve answered yes to any of the previous questions, it’s likely that your dog runs the show, and you’re just along for the ride. This will prove to be quite problematic and a bit embarrassing later in life, if it isn’t already. To gain the respect, commitment, and allegiance from Spike, subscribe to this blog and get pointers on a practical approach to dog training. I will cover everything from choosing the right dog for you (which will be the topic of my next post), to problem solving unwanted behaviors, and everything in between.
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