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How to Take on the Leadership Role With Dogs

by Lashon Fryer

Overview

When your dog does not have a clearly defined role in the home, it will cause him confusion. After a while, your dog's uncertainty can lead to destructive behavior. This new-found conduct does not mean your dog is crazy; it is likely the consequence of his confusion. You can substitute his confusion with happiness by showing your dog you are the leader of the pack, so to speak.

Step 1

Take him on a pack walk. A pack walk is not the same as a typical walk. It is the kind where you show your dog you are his leader. For example, the dog will not be able to run wild during a pack walk, he will be required to walk behind you, or to heel beside you when you are not walking.
Step 2

Enter the door before your dog. In order to show your dog you are his leader, you, and any other humans, need to enter the door before your dog. When you are training your dog to enter the door after you, he will still attempt to enter the door first, but tell him to stay. After you have entered the door, you can direct your dog to come. He will eventually learn that he is not to enter a door before his leader; you should use the same practice for the stairs.
Step 3

Feed your dog at the same time each day. Refrain from using a self-feeding dispenser because this tells your dog that he decides when he eats. As his leader, you are responsible for controlling his eating schedule.
Step 4

Be assertive with your dog. You cannot be anxious when trying to show your dog you are his leader. According to Cesar Milan, a professional dog trainer who is more commonly referred to as the "Dog Whisperer," your dog communicates through energy, so you cannot be a pack leader if you project panic or nervousness. Try to remain calm and assertive.
Step 5

Teach your dog how to work for what he wants. He needs to know there is a price to be paid for the things that he wants. For example, if you dog wants you to pet him, he has to sit down first. If he wants to go for a walk, he needs to sit down and wait patiently for you to put his collar around his neck.

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Remember to praise your dog when he displays the correct behavior.
Remember to praise your dog when he displays the correct behavior.
Failing to reprimand bad behavior can lead to a pattern of similar behavior. Discipline your dog right after he misbehaves, so he knows why he is being punished.
Failing to reprimand bad behavior can lead to a pattern of similar behavior. Discipline your dog right after he misbehaves, so he knows why he is being punished.