All dogs are descendants of wolves, and even though our canine pets are domesticated, they still have pack instincts. Your dog doesn’t think it’s a person – it thinks you’re a dog. A dog needs and expects a leader, and if it doesn’t recognize you as the alpha dog, it will assume the responsibility itself.

You will never be able to successfully train your dog until your leadership is established. This is a much easier task when dealing with a puppy or young dog, so start as soon as possible by following these tips:

·         Only give affection when the dog is calm and submissive. When a dog receives affection while it is acting fearful or excited, the bad behavior will only be reinforced. He’ll think, “Oh, I’m getting petted for this. I guess this is how I’m supposed to act.”

·         The first command you should teach is NO.

·         YOU decide when to play. If Rover brings you his favorite toy to initiate play time, don’t always give in to his request.

·         Always be the first to enter or exit a room or other enclosure.

·         YOU decide when the dog eats. Fill his food bowl and place it on the floor, then stand between it and the dog. Once the dog shows submission by lying down or sitting calmly, allow it to eat. Give the dog a chew bone, then take it away after a while. The dog will learn that you make the decisions.

·         If a puppy growls at you, unless it’s in play, he’s challenging your authority. Take action immediately by holding him down by the neck. Do not release him until he is calm and submissive. This is what his mother would do. If an adult dog growls at you, give him a firm NO while either tapping him or giving his collar a slight jerk.

·         When walking your dog, the dog should be slightly behind you or even with you. Never allow the dog to walk ahead of you. If your dog tries to walk or run ahead, use a choke collar to correct the behavior. Use a tug-and-release instead of constant pressure. Your energy travels down the leash, so you need to be calm at all times when walking your pet. The leash should have some slack in it, and you should be relaxed and confident.

·         Dogs are very in tune to body language, so make sure yours says that you’re the boss. Stand up straight, with shoulders back.

·         Do not repeat commands. If the dog ignores your command, take action. For example, if you say “SIT,” and the dog doesn’t comply immediately, do not repeat yourself. Instead, place pressure on the dog’s rear and make him sit.

·         Leaders do not shout. Give commands firmly without yelling.

·         When you pat your pooch’s head, pat the top of the head to establish that you’re above him. If you pat or rub under his chin, he will think you’re beneath him.

·         Dogs respect the alpha’s personal space. Do not allow your dog to place his paw on you, rub against you, or lean on you. When he does, he’s testing your leadership. Also, don’t allow him to jump into your lap unless you invite him to do so.

Dogs that have been conditioned to recognize their human’s superiority and leadership are much happier and better adjusted. They inherently need a pack leader. It’s in their genetic makeup. And it will make you a much happier pet owner, also.