Could it be that my dog is the alpha pack leader?

Question

He always wants to lead in our walks and he pulls me everywhere. I've been trying to make him walk beside me and behind and it's starting to work(you know the walking in the other direction when he pulls and goes in front of you method) but it's a lot of work and effort and it seems like he's uncomfortable and reluctant to be walking behind me to the left. Sometimes I think, in his mind he thinks he's the leader and he's protecting me from everything, leading me and guiding his way wherever he wants to go. However when I let go of the leash and walk away from him, he won't go far without me and comes running to me, so is he getting used to walking behind me or is he just the natural born alpha pack leader?

Answer 1

All dogs will test you to see who is the boss - it's in their nature.
YOU are supposed to be the alpha dog.
1] Say, 'Corky, heel!' afetr the leash is on and you are in place; then start walking. Keep the leash short and kind of tight so he has less slack to work with
2] always walk with him in the same position while he is on a leash - same side, same distance - if he tries to go furthur, say 'Corky, heel!' firmly and clearly, and don't give him slack.
If he runs and chokes, it won't hurt him, but will train him to obey.
3] you're right that training a dog is a lot of effort - so is almost everything that is worthwhile!
4] every command should be 'Corky, _____!' gently and firmly, so he knows you are talking to him, and will learn to listen, and obey.
5] Don't forget to teach him a 'come' command, and a 'run' free command. He should not go anywhere outside unless you give permission - this is good discipline, and prevents many accidents and dog fights.

Answer 2

He should not be the alpha anyhow, that's YOUR job. Until you do so he won't be under your control and you will see more and more problems:

Please check these links for detailed information on how to achieve this:

Please check these links for information on just how to do that:

http://www.canismajor.com/dog/alpha1.html
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/topdog.htm