In the wild, dogs live in packs with a clear hierarchy, and domestic dogs are no different. They need a leader to follow, and if you don’t assume that role, your dog might take it upon themselves, often leading to undesirable behaviors best dog training houston. A study by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) suggests that consistent leadership helps prevent behavior problems in dogs.
The Tale of Two Canines
Recall the previous article’s example of King, the dominant dog who ruled his household. His aggressive behavior was a result of unclear leadership within the family. On the other hand, we have Queenie, a terrier mix whose owner, Jackie, established herself as the pack leader using positive reinforcement. Queenie’s integration into the family was smooth, and her behavior remained exemplary.
Key Steps to Asserting Leadership
To transform your household into one where dogs like Queenie thrive, consider these additional training tips, building upon the first set from our earlier article.
- Capture Their Attention
Always start commands with your dog’s name to ensure you have their focus. For example, saying “Benji, come!” is more effective than “Come here, Benji!” because it signals to Benji that a command is coming. - Lead the Way
As the pack leader, you should be the first to pass through doorways, gates, and car doors. This reinforces your position and encourages your dog to respect your leadership. Consistent praise when they allow you to lead reinforces this behavior. - Practice Kindness
A gentle and loving approach is crucial. While firmness may be necessary at times, always provide guidance calmly. This fosters trust and a stronger desire in your dog to follow your lead. - Controlled Playtime
Initiate and conclude play sessions, maintaining control over games and toys. Ending the game before your dog loses interest keeps them engaged and eager for the next playtime. - Mealtime Manners
Leaders eat first, so have your meals before feeding your dog. This ritual, rooted in pack behavior, establishes your status and prevents food-related dominance issues.