ESTABLISHING LEADERSHIP

The Duties of a Leader

A training class never goes by without mentioning the importance of being your dogs leader.  We all love our dogs and love to spoil them.  However, when we spoil our dogs, we sometimes don't see the damage we are doing to our relationship with them and how it can cause unwanted behavior.  Just like raising children, dogs need structure.  Rules need to be established and enforced to maintain social order.  The leader of the pack chooses who is in the pack, and what authority each member has or doesn't have.  

Here are a few exercises to practice to show the dog who is the leader.

Leaders:
1.  Eat First.
2  Go through doorways first.
3.  Stay calm and in control.
4.  Set the pace and the direction.
5.  Do not let their personal space be invaded.
6.  Say when play begins and when it ends.
7.  Do not offer free treats.
8.  Assume the higher ground (beds, couches, etc.)
9.  Never change their direction or step over the dog.
10.   Assign resting spots for other pack members.

By implementing these leadership exercises consistently on a daily basis, you will see a positive change in your dogs behavior.