Dominance, hierarchy, Alpha, status, boss are all terms frequently applied to our relationships with our dogs. We are often told that either we need to establish our dominance over them or that their behaviour problems are a result of them believing that they can exert their dominance over us. But is this really the case?

Dominance theories in relation to our dogs largely came about as a result of studying wolf behaviour. However, most of these studies were of wolves in captivity or of artificially created packs and environments. It is now widely recognised that wolves in the wild behave differently to those in these simulated environments where 'dominant' behaviour is more prevalent. It is also important to remember that dogs are not wolves. Whilst it is true that dogs share their evolutionary heritage with wolves. Making direct comparisons is a bit like comparing human behaviour with that of apes. Whilst there may be similarities, you wouldn't bring your children up like chimpanzees. 		  
 

"The blanket assumption that every dog is motivated by some innate desire to control people and other dogs is frankly ridiculous.  It hugely underestimates the complex communicative and learning abilities of dogs."

 

Dr Rachel Casey Senior Lecturer at Bristol University 

 
 

 

Dominance theories and the comparison between dog and wolf behaviour has done our dogs a great disservice. There is no solid research to support that it can be successfully applied to interactions betweens humans and dogs. However, a wealth of books and television programmes appear to make it the case. Unfortunately, the methods employed do nothing to build a bond and a state of mutual trust between the dog and owner and often exacerbates behaviour problems in the longer term.

By seeing your relationship with your dog as one of master and servant; you view him as an adversary and see your interactions as one of you winning at the expense of the other. This is not about always letting your dog do as it pleases. It is about learning to live with your dog so that the situation is one of win-win rather than win-lose.

Dog behaviour problems are not caused by them seeking to improve their position within the household. They are largely caused by a misunderstanding of their language. Effective communication is the basis for all relationships. At best, misunderstanding can lead to an unhappy dog, at the extreme, many a fearful dog has been put to sleep because its behaviour has been misinterpreted or misdiagnosed as aggression.

"We can tell when a dog comes in to us which has been subjected to the 'dominance reduction technique' so beloved of TV dog trainers.  They can be very fearful, which can lead to aggression towards people Sadly, many techniques used to teach a dog that his owner is leader of the pack is counter-productive; you won't get a better behaved dog, but you will either end up with a dog so fearful it has suppressed all its natural behaviours and will just do nothing, or one so aggressive it's dangerous to be around."

                                     Veterinary Director of Dogs Trust Chris Laurence MBE

  
 
 

Do yourself and your 'best friend' a favour. Forget any ideas that his behaviour is determined by dominance. Instead, learn some basic canine communication. It will start you on a road to a happy and fulfilling relationship for you both.