Does Your Dog See You as a Worthy Leader?
When you’re on a walk with your dog and you notice another dog is approaching, do you get concerned, have to stop, or even start walking in another direction in order to avoid the crazy snarling, lunging and barking?
Well, when your dog is aggressive towards other dogs it is often because they’re trying to protect you. Your dog thinks the other dog is a threat in one way or another.
When your dog is trying to protect you, it’s because they think you are not able to protect them so they have to do it themselves.
As you know, dogs evolved from wolves and it’s well documented that wolves function in packs, this is important, keep reading and you’ll see why.
Within each pack is a leader and the pack-leader(s) are the ones who run the show. They determine what is and what isn’t a threat. When the pack should relax and back down or fight.
In your dog’s mind, they live in a pack…like a family with you and whoever you may also live with. This means that if your dog is lunging at other dogs, barking at them and activing in an aggressive fashion… your dog most likely thinks they’re the pack leader and they’re trying to protect you!
So what can you do about this? Dog obedience training or using tips from a Dog Behaviorist is great for many activities and situations, but when it comes to your dogs behavior, obedience training can be almost useless if your dog doesn’t see you as the leader of the household, aka of the “pack”. Obedience by definition is the dog being obedient to the human but its nature might still overrule the directions in order to protect itself.
Unless you’re the leader in THEIR eyes, they won’t listen to you when they are more concerned with protecting themselves because you aren’t doing it.
So before you try obedience training or sign up for expensive dog socializing classes contact us!
When your dog sees you as a worthy leader, it creates a strong foundation for a positive and harmonious relationship. Here are some of the benefits:
Improved Behavior:
- Reduced Anxiety and Stress: A dog who trusts its owner feels more secure and less anxious, leading to calmer behavior.
- Better Obedience: A dog who respects its owner is more likely to listen to commands and follow rules.
- Reduced Behavioral Problems: Good leadership can help prevent or address behavioral issues like aggression, barking, or destructive behavior.
Stronger Bond:
- Increased Trust: A dog who trusts its owner feels safe and secure, leading to a stronger bond.
- Enhanced Communication: Clear communication and understanding between the owner and dog strengthen their relationship.
- Shared Enjoyment: A well-behaved dog is more fun to be around, leading to more enjoyable experiences for both the dog and owner.
Enhanced Well-being:
- Reduced Stress: A well-adjusted dog is less likely to experience stress-related health problems.
- Improved Quality of Life: A dog who feels safe and secure can enjoy a happier and more fulfilling life.
By establishing yourself as a confident and caring leader, you can create a positive and rewarding relationship with your dog. This will benefit both of you for years to come.
