BECOMING A LEADER
Like your dog to look up to you, be obedient and become a loyal companion? These points may help you!
1.Think of yourself as a benevolent dictator. Your dog is a pack animal and is looking for someone to follow. It would be best for that person to be you. Be firm, not harsh and make decisions for your dog.
2.Your puppy should happily roll over and let you pat his tummy. Every time you look at your puppy roll him over gently but firmly, rub his tummy until you are ready to let him up.
3.Alpha dogs never lose, so don't let your puppy win. Start games and end them when you want to. Never play tugofwar with your puppy. He will eventually be strong and win that game. It also teaches him to grab your hands, which can lead to a bite. Wrestling games are puppies' way of testing each other's strength. Do not wrestle with your puppy because he will figure out that he is faster and stronger.
4.Alpha dogs guard territory, so your puppy should move out of your way when you walk up to him.
5.Alpha dogs eat first. Finish your dinner and then feed your dog.
6.Alpha dogs get to go first. Your puppy should never rush out of the door in front of you. Make sure your puppy lets you go through doors first.
7.When petting your dog, be sure to hold his muzzle occasionally. Do not let him/her take his/her muzzle away from you. Holding your dog's muzzle is a dominant act, telling him that you are the alpha dog.
8.Use consistent tones when giving commands. Your dog should think of you as a leader and do what you say. No matter how simple the command, use firm tones to deliver and make sure your dog completes the command. Only reward the dog if it has earned it. Your puppy is only a good dog if he/she has done something you asked them to. Do not praise your dog for existing.
9.Lying down is a submissive position so have your dog lie down frequently.
10.Dogs showing aggressive behaviour should not sleep in bed with you. Make them sleep in a subordinate position on the floor.
11.Lay your arm over your dog's shoulder. This is a dominance statement
12.Dogs that are already showing aggressive behaviour should not be forced to roll over, have arms placed over their shoulders or have their noses held. This can lead to bites. Do try to reward your dog for allowing you to pat his/her muzzle or stomach when he/she lies down. Reward your dog for showing submissive behaviour.
|