Understanding Dogs and the Dog-Pack Instinct

In the wild, puppies are introduced into the pack shortly after birth, and must learn their place quickly to survive. For thousands of years, canine society has evolved to be gregarious and hierarchical. What does this mean to us? A dog pack works much like a business corporation. Taking advantage of this ensures our canine friends know who the boss is when it comes to protecting and caring for them.

First and foremost, you must make sure your dog understands you are the "alpha dog". In the pack, the alpha dog is the boss - the dog that runs the business of protecting and leading the pack. It's important for you to be the alpha dog so your dog knows who to follow and listen. In the wild, when a subordinate dog challenges the alpha dog, the alpha dog usually responds with a forceful growl or nip. Often the alpha dog forces the subordinate dog onto his or her back to show submission.

SPAYING YOUR DOG

Humans can't really growl or nip, but there are other ways you can establish dominance over your dog. You feed him, lead him when you walk, and restrain his actions when needed. Use consistent positive reinforcement and firm correction. Never hit your dog - instead, a simple firm "No" is sufficient. Never give any more than a "No" as this will confuse your dog. Your dog will think you're paying attention to him (a positive reinforcement) and continue the unwanted behavior for attention.

Another way to stop negative behavior is distraction. For example, if they are chewing on something they shouldn't, immediately tell them "No" and pull them away from the bad item. A minute or so later after they have stopped chewing, offer them a chew toy. By doing this, you establish their boundaries and offer them reasonable distraction from the unwanted behavior.

A good way to establish dominance over your dog is to walk them. However, you must walk them the right way from the start. When you are getting ready to take your dog out for a walk, never put on the leash before the dog is calm and sitting patiently. This can be done as long as you have already taught your dog basic "sit" commands. Once your dog is ready, make him or her walk besides you. Do not allow your dog to pull the lead and dominate the walk. Shorten the length of the lead and keep the dog beside you, with you leading the way.

If you have a larger dog (60+ pounds) and they have a problem with pulling the lead, the use of a choke chain is recommended by most conventional trainers. Do not overuse the choke chain though, and let the dog pull the chain (it will tighten and correct his pulling). Never jerk the chain back too harshly when using a choke chain. A choke chain generally will safely and quickly correct pulling behavior and can eventually be replaced with a standard collar.

How do dogs in the wild share positive social bonds with the alpha dog running the show? Well, mostly through attention. They play with each other, groom each other, and sleep near each other. Even though the alpha dog is definitely in charge, he also protects the pack. So even though you may feel like a taskmaster always telling your best friend "No", understand that your dog craves this structure. Always balance positive reinforcement with obedience training. It offers him safety, food, play and mostly positive attention!

Understanding Dogs and the Dog-Pack Instinct

Dominic Lee is the spokeperson for PetPetSupplies.com - the premier internet destination for pet supplies, accessories, and products for pets. For products which can help you train your dog, please checkout: http://www.petpetsupplies.com/dogs-training---obedience.html

SPAYING YOUR DOG