Establishing a leader role

Dogs have a natural instinct to lead or follow. Most dogs would prefer to follow, and only take a leader role if no one else does. Although we like to think our dogs react to us in certain ways with love, that is just not the case. Dogs do not work on an emotional level as we do. When your dog reacts to you in an appropriate manner, he/she is doing so out of respect. Conversely, when your dog is constantly bothering you for attention, eliminates in the house, or chews your favorite shoes he/she is not mad at you. These things are generally signs of a lack of respect, or leadership in the house.

To establish yourself as a leader in the house is not difficult. It can easily be thought of as “nothing in life is free”. Basically, everything your dog wants or needs is supplied by the leader, when the leader says it is time. Food is not left for access whenever your dog decides he/she is hungry. Limiting the dog’s access throughout the house is also a way of establishing a leader role. When it is time to go outside, go for a walk, car ride or anything else your dog enjoys it should be given only after the dog has performed an acceptable behavior. Examples are acting in a calm manner, sit/stay, down/stay, or come.

Your posture and attitude is also a key to earning your dog’s respect. Dogs do not follow overly aggressive leaders, nor do they follow very meek and gentle leaders. A dogs natural instinct is to respect and trust a leader who is calm, unemotional and confident. You can portray this role by being assertive without raising your voice or “man-handling” your dog, and also by limiting the praise given to your dog.

It is perfectly acceptable to love your dog-I love my dogs. However, they each have a job to do, even if it is remaining calm when in the house or not being food aggressive or leaving the kids toys alone. Reinforcing these behaviors will keep your home intact, keep your dog happy, and keep your sanity.