Dog Dominance Behavior - Are You Kidding Me?

Can you believe it? Someone who claimed to be an expert on Dog Dominance wrote this in an article. He said that if your dog is dominant over another dog, you should feed, pet, and walk your dog first. The claim was that it would reassure your dog if you give him extra attention and make him first! Then he would be at ease with the other dog.

Rongo, Bongo! This will only reinforce his dog dominance behavior, not change it. It's the same as with children - Preferential treatment will only cause jealousy! Your dog needs to know right away that if you bring the other dog in, it's because you want to. And you have the authority to.

It doesn't mean you don't still love your dog. You can pet WHO you want, WHEN you want. You can take a walk with one when you want to, and you can feed or treat one when you want. YOU are the leader. That's the way it is in the wild.

Your life doesn't suddenly get rearranged so that you are walking on eggshells around this dog. He may not be happy with the new dog at first, but he needs to deal with it. Your attitude is not mean, but more matter-of-fact: "This is how it is, because this is how I want it to be."

The dogs must become a pack for things to work out. Equal treatment and affection are critical items in the matter.

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman