When a dog looks to thier family unit for leadership and sees no leader, they they figure they must fill the position themselves because every group needs a leader and a pecking order. Some dogs are forced into the leadership role and become very stressed with the responsibility. Some dogs with a dominant temperment will manipulate their way into the leadership role, taking advantage of their owners. In some instances, dogs forced into the leadership role will use aggression to maitain order and consistency. Sometimes dogs that are self appointed into this position will use aggression to maintain their status in the family unit.
Whether a dog is forced into the leadership role or manipulates his way into it, his maneuvers are the same. Dogs assume leadership in a very canine way. They become pushy at the front door, attaining the most centreal and elevated sleeping station, requiring they not be disturbed when resting, barking at anything they think needs barking at for as long as they wish, having first dibs on any food or possession within reach, having the right to defend any food or possessions they come upon, expecting not to be touched in any way they do not like and being able to demand various forms of attention or behaviors from you, their subordinate.
To prevent dog bites, unruly behavior and to preserve the human-animal bond, it is extremely important to undeerstand your role as the leader, "The Pack Leader"
Next installment I'll go over some of the house rules and how to enforce them firmly and fairly. So till next time, stay tuned...
Article Written By J. Foley
I could not agree more. Every pack must have a leader and it should not be the family pet.
Posted by: Karen Lee | Wednesday, February 08, 2012 at 03:47 PM