I've heard that you have to show your dog you are the "dominant" one. What are some ways to do that?

Answer 1

Dogs are pack animals and being a part of the "pack" you need to let him know that you are the pack leader.

There are a lot of ways to do this. If the dog is small, or a puppy, lay him on his back. He/she will probably squirm, but hold him, reassuring him that he's fine and tell him you will let him go when you are ready.

When the dog does not listen to you, correct him immediately. Be Consistent and firm. You have to be in control at ALL times. Be definite in your commands, your voice should be moderate and sharp.

Leash training is an excellent way to establish your leadership role. I would suggest you check with your local pet store for classes.

Answer 2

Please read some books about positive dog training and how dogs think. They are different from humans, and they are also quite different from wolves.

There are a lot of myths out there regarding how to establish leadership with a dog, and some of them are just ridiculous.

The best way is to just have the attitude that you love your dog, therefor you will always let your dog know that you are in charge of all situations that may arise. Your dog will be happier and better behaved if he knows that he doesn't have to do everything himself, that you are in full control. This means being calm, controlled, never flying off the handle, consistent in your rules, and positive in your disposition. A dog doesn't need a dictator and a dog does not need to be "dominated". A dog needs a strong, consistent leader. Think deeply about the difference between being a good leader, and just being a bossy bully.

Answer 3

When you take your dog for a walk, never let him/her go out the door ahead of you. You should always go out first and have him follow you. Depending on the size of your dog if you can lay him on the floor on his side and hold him down for a few seconds or so that also shows that you are the dominant one. Martha Stewart said that whenever she gets a new dog she gently bites him on the face. Wonder if she learned that one in prison?

Answer 4

Forget trying to dominate your dog and just be his friend. Do as Petra suggests and go to training classes.
Research has conclusively shown that we should NOT try to be top dog etc. We can never be a dogs 'pack.' We don't walk on 4 legs, we don't communicate in the same way and we CANNOT mate with them and continue their species.
Read Dogs by r & L Coppinger.

Answer 5

It is hard for me to have any room to talk because I am not the dominant one in my house, but here are some things you could try that I just can't seem to get right. When I play tug of war with my dog, she always wins, she is just stronger, try not to let yours win. Also, when I take her for walks, she pulls alot. Don't let your dog do this, train it to walk by your side, and correct it if it doesn't. Also, wait until you are done eating, and then feed your dog. This reinforces that you are first, and your dog comes second.

Answer 6

Start with understanding that it's a dog, not your child; don't baby it.

Walk it often and do not allow it to walk ahead of you. Your are the leader and it follows. This tells the dog in social dog speak that you are the leader of the dog pack.

You tell it were to lie down, where & were not to to go in your home. We do not allow the dog to go in the kitchen when there is food being prepared. Give the dog direction with love & praise.

Answer 7

One of the easiest ways, if it's still a puppy, is to pick it up. That's an act of sheer godhood on your part. Doggy thinks "I am completely helpless in regard to this being, it lifts me up where I can do nothing..."

Other ways are to stare it down. You can growl as well. Put your hand (Gently!) around it's throat, as if you were to strangle it with one hand, but of course don't, it's as if you're doing what they do to each other, holding your mouth around its throat, showing that you're both powerful and merciful, maintaining eye contact with it until it looks away.

Others have said to hold it down by the back of the neck, like forcing them to lay down...this is pretty dominating, and as long as you don't hurt it is probably okay, but I personally find it distasteful.

Answer 8

By letting them know that you are the boss and make all decisions, not matter what the circumstances. Even when u play with him or her, u always win. cause if u let them win, they think they are dominant. Oh and dont give into the sad puppy eyes no matter how hard it can be. if u give them thier way, they will rule the house lol trust me, i know.

Answer 9

Never let your dog in or out of any door before you.
Never let your dog do something important (i.e., eating, or getting into or out of a car) without you giving that dog permission.
Give treats only for training purposes or exceptionally good behavior such as a dog following your commands - no free treats.
Try not to lose control and yell at your dog in anger. Use body language and low-growly voices to let your dog know that you don't appreciate his behavior - standing real tall is also good to do.
Don't let your dog sleep in your bed - you are confusing it as to pack order and asking for trouble.
Never let your dog in or out of any door before you.
Never let your dog do something important (i.e., eating, or getting into or out of a car) without you giving that dog permission.
Give treats only for training purposes or exceptionally good behavior such as a dog following your commands - no free treats.
Try not to lose control and yell at your dog in anger. Use body language and low-growly voices to let your dog know that you don't appreciate his behavior - standing real tall is also good to do.
Don't let your dog sleep in your bed - you are confusing it as to pack order and asking for trouble.
Get your dog's attention and encourage eye contact several times a day.
Use feeding time to demonstrate dependability and leadership by feeding on a regular schedule.
Control the territory by insisting that your dog moves out of the way instead of stepping over him.
Practice dominance interaction with your dog regularly including gentle handling, belly rubs, and muzzle control.

Answer 10

try watching "The Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan" comes on the national geographic channel. its so cool!