How to Be the Alpha Dog
Perhaps the most important thing your dog ever needs to understand is that you are the boss, you are the Alpha Dog. When raising your dog it is very easy to be weak in an effort to show love and affection – this commonly leads to your dog believing that he is the master in your relationship. If this is the case in your relationship – you need to correct the social standing immediately.
Before getting started let me just clarify that being the Alpha Dog has nothing to do with handing out harsh punishments. What it requires is a set of consistent limits and guidelines. The following tips will help you establish and maintain the position as the “Alpha Dog” of the household.
Tip 1 – Always walk through doorways first.
This is an incredibly simple but powerful way of showing your dog that you have the right of passage. Dog’s can’t really understand spoken language but they can understand body language very well, this gives a clear message that you are more important than the dog.
Tip 2 – Always eat before your dog.
In the wild Alpha Dogs always eat first. It’s important that you do the same. Make sure that you and your family eat before your dog.
Tip 3 – Respond immediately to disobedience.
Anytime your dog does something that is clearly unacceptable, you must take quick and responsive action. Lets say for example that your dog steals food from your plate. Immediately make a loud noise by clapping and then take your dog by the snout and say “Bad Dog” in a firm voice. After this, make sure you don’t give your dog any attention whatsoever for a full 20 minutes.
Tip 4 – Don’t walk around your dog – make your dog move for you.
This is a very effective way to show your dog that you are the leader. If you ever find your dog in your path, make it move – don’t walk around the dog. This sounds a bit extreme but it is a measure that must be taken. This is exactly what an Alpha Dog would do if it was in your situation.
Tip 5 – Don’t sleep with your dog.
Your dog should never sleep on your bed. This puts your dog on the same level as you socially and can encourage your dog to believe it is superior to you. Always make your dog sleep on the floor to ensure you are held in respect.
Following the 5 tips mentioned above will guarantee your place as the Alpha Dog. This means your dog will behave better and cause less problems. Everyone (including your dog) will be happier knowing the correct social standing.
If you want more information on how to become the Alpha Dog, visit the links listed below.
