There exists many theories on the dominance issue throughout the "dog world". Many behaviorists/trainers have their own personal viewpoints and will tell you many different things, some more interesting than others, some more valuable than others. Keep in mind, that these opinions are based on a field that is still being researched today and that still needs documented facts, which are seriously lacking in the field of behaviorism.

In behaviorism, the past has been plagued with the popular notion that dominance in dogs is a common cause of behavior problems. Supposedly, our dogs are constantly trying to dominate us, throughout their entire life, and in consequence, we must fight for that "alpha" role continuously. This hardly seems like fun; in fact, it is quite stressful for our dogs and for ourselves to constantly walk around thinking that a game of dominance is being played out relentlessly. The terms associated with this theory are still being widely used today. Think of terms such as pack leader, dominant, alpha, top dog position, the boss, etc...

Let's be clear here. This is a theory developed from the concept of canine to canine behavior in a "wild" pack of dogs, based on their distant ancestor, the wolf. This theory has been transferred right into our households and has become a canine to human theory. Does this make any sense? That is a question we must ask ourselves. Just as we don't always compare neanderthal man to modern man, we should be careful in our constant comparisons of wolves and dogs; today, they are 2 different species. Dogs are no longer a wild species necessitating killing to survive. Therefore, the rules that wild animals live by simply cannot fully apply to the domestic animal who we call dog.

It is very unlikely that our dogs are trying to "take over" and "dominate" us. This is based on innacurate views and can deeply affect the relationship we have with our dogs. How can we enjoy their true nature, their love, their companionship when all we are focusing on is the next time they'll be "bossy" and try to "dominate" us? Does it even make any sense to live with them this way?

A social hierarchy can exist between dogs in a pack/family unit. However, it would be extremely unlikely that it exists between two species. In other words, dogs are dogs, people are people, and all of us know it. Dogs get along so wonderfully with people since there is no competition for social status, as opposed to popular belief. Dogs can be pushy and confident. This may look to us like a "dominance display". Other dogs are more shy and have less confidence. These dogs appear more submissive. Don't forget, dogs are dogs, and they will forever be scavengers and opportunists. They learn exactly what it is they have to do to get what they want, then apply it. Dogs learn by association. If you leave a juicy piece of steak on the kitchen counter, don't be surprised at Bruno, who is now gulping it down with extreme excitement. Bruno could be the best trained and the sweetest dog in the world, he just couldn't resist the temptation! This is not a "taking over" behavior simply because to you, Bruno is so well trained, he just shouldn't be causing trouble and not listening to you! You try staring at a big appetizing piece of chocolate cake, with thick creamy icing without wanting to eat it! What are the chances that piece of cake will still be there in the next few minutes?

Here are some other examples in which you might reconsider thinking that your dog is exerting "dominance to gain higher status". Say your dog grumbles at you when you are trying to discipline him in a harsh, agressive manner. It is very likely that he finds you rude and stressful, and will probably send you a calming signal, the language that he speaks. Or say you have given your dog a delicious food item and he grumbles at you when you suddenly take it away. You had given him the food, it became his, and then you just took it away. Have you taught your dog to "give" what he now has? If not, he is just acting naturally, trying to keep what now belongs to him. "Resource possession" can also apply to toys and bones.

We must learn to understand and appreciate normal dog behavior. We will then be able to have a better relationship with our dogs, one based on mutual respect, caring and appreciation.

Dogs are also conflict-solvers by nature and use calming signals for this very purpose. Learning and applying calming signals will also lead you to have a closer, deeper, and more positive relationship towards each other. Turid Rugaas was the pioneer for bringing these signals to light and has observed and identified many of them throughout the past 10 years.

Many normal behaviors have to do with the senses, with natural instincts also coming into play. When one sense is being used, the dog becomes less receptive with his other senses. Take for example, a dog who has spotted a squirrel and begins to chase it. He becomes so concentrated on the squirrel, as his chasing instinct is now into play, that he does not hear you calling for him while holding a nice piece of cheese!

So let's concentrate on what's really important here: our relationship with our dogs. Let's be responsible owners by guiding our dogs, using calming signals for stress reduction, influencing their behavior through socialization and positive training and learning how to cohabitate with them in peace and harmony. It's all about LOVE and RESPECT for our dogs folks! 


If you are interested in training your dog or if your dog has training/behavior issues, join a Dogzoogle class or become a member of Dogzoogle ( coming soon! ) and have access to our online training programs, must-have information and demonstrations.