Should you pin an Alaskan Malamute?

Question

The American breeder i bought an Al Mal from (for $2000) told me to pin the nose and make the Mal lie flat if it tries to be dominant & growl at me or anyone. I saw her do this with a huge 4 year old male, she did it with ease but ................

Is this something alot of Malamute owners do? I know they suffer from establishing the top pack position via dominance but is this counter productive or fueling feelings of striving to be pack leader more so.

Any experience of this anyone?

Answer 1

If she has dogs with enough aggression issues that she is TEACHING a novice how to do an Alpha Roll, you may have some issues to contend with as this dog grows up.

1. Pet and spend time with your puppy... teach him to like having his belly rubbed... going on walks.. etc.. Dogs view play as the beginning of establishing heirarchy (northern breed dogs anyhow).

2. Start reading anythin you can get your hands on about training dogs. Read about dominance theory and pack heirarchy.

3. Get to puppy kindergarten

4. Obedience classes

No, a lot of Malamute owners do not breed dogs that need THAT much dominance.

It is a tool in what you should consider as a toolbox. You need to start getting your toolbox together. It is one of the LAST tools you ever want to use.. since.. where do you go if it no longer works? Establish your leadership FROM THE BEGINNING.

Yes, NILF (nothing in life is free) is another tool.. and probably a better one to START with.

Answer 2

This is called an Alpha Roll.

I do NOT recommend it. It is a good way to get bitten.

All dogs need obedience training, so enroll in some classes.

Using Nothing In Life is Free helps curb a dominant dog. You teach them that the things they want and need are controlled by you. They have to sit before being fed, petted, let outside whatever they want or need they have to work for.

Answer 3

I don't know, but it sounds horrible