Understanding Dominance Theory
Dominance theory emerged in the 1940s from studies of wolves living in captivity. Researchers observed “alpha wolves” using aggression to control the “beta wolves” and cubs. This led to the idea that domestic dogs inherited a rigid dominance hierarchy from their wolf ancestors.
According to dominance theory, owners must establish themselves as the “alpha” or pack leader over their dog, using techniques like alpha rolls (forcibly rolling the dog onto its back), scruff shakes, and other physical corrections. The goal is to dominate the dog into submission in order to address behavior issues.
This theory became very popular in dog training, bolstered by bestselling books in the 1970s. For decades, punishing dogs for perceived challenges to status was considered necessary to have a well-trained, obedient pet.
Problems with Dominance Theory
The idea of dominance in dog training is based on an outdated view of wolf behavior that has been discredited by newer research. This old dominance theory suggested that wolves fight to gain dominance over their pack members and that dogs, as descendants of wolves, behave the same way. However, studies on wolves in the wild have shown that wolf packs actually function more like family units where the “alpha” male and female are simply the breeding pair. Rank fights are rare and dominance displays are used to avoid conflict rather than reinforce status.
Applying dominance theory to dog training can lead to the use of punishment, fear, and pain to suppress a dog’s natural behaviors. Techniques like alpha rolls, collar corrections, and other coercive methods teach the dog to obey out of fear rather than cooperation with the owner. This can damage the human-animal bond and cause stress, anxiety, or aggression in the dog. Most veterinary behaviorists and animal behavior experts now discourage using dominance-based training.
Modern View of Dog Behavior
The concept of “dominance” in dog training is outdated and has been largely debunked by modern behavioral science. Researchers have found that dogs do not compete with humans to establish a social hierarchy or seek “dominance” over their owners. Here are some key understandings in the modern view of dog behavior:
Dogs are social, seeking companionship. Dogs have evolved as social animals that gain mental and physical benefits from positive human companionship. They thrive when treated as part of the family. Rather than dominating dogs, build a bond through clear communication, compassionate leadership, and rewarding positive behaviors.
Use reward-based training, not dominance. Current best practices rely on reinforcement like treats and praise to shape desired behaviors. Punitive methods or forced dominance, on the other hand, often lead to fearful, anxious, and aggressive dogs. Set your dog up for success by motivating them with kindness.
Building a Bond with Your Dog
Building a strong bond with your dog through mutual trust and understanding is essential. This bond is built through positive reinforcement training methods and by making sure all of your dog’s needs are met.
Positive reinforcement training focuses on rewarding your dog for good behavior, rather than punishing them for bad behavior. This helps build trust between you and your dog. Provide treats, affection, toys or playtime as rewards when your dog demonstrates a behavior you want to encourage. This positive approach is more effective for training than punishment or dominance.
In addition to positive training, it’s important to meet all of your dog’s needs. Make sure they get adequate physical and mental exercise daily. Provide a comfortable place to sleep, fresh water, nutritious food, grooming and veterinary care. Spend quality one-on-one time together by playing games, going for walks or participating in training sessions. A well-cared for dog is a happy, secure dog that trusts their human.
Building a mutually respectful relationship takes time, patience and effort, but the bond you form will be rewarding for both you and your canine companion. Focus on understanding your dog’s needs, motivations and communication style. With positive interactions and proper care, your dog will look to you for guidance and affection rather than challenging your authority.
Being a Responsible Dog Owner
To have a happy, healthy relationship with your dog, it’s important to provide proper care and meet their needs. Here are some tips for being a responsible dog owner:
Make sure your dog gets adequate exercise and playtime. Your dog’s exercise needs will vary based on their age, breed, and health. Walks, games of fetch, or trips to the dog park are great ways to provide both physical and mental stimulation.
Socialize your dog and expose them to new people, places, sights and sounds from a young age to build their confidence. Take them on car rides, walks through busy areas, or have friends come over regularly when they are a puppy.
Create a safe, dog-proof home environment. Make sure your home and yard are properly fenced or contained, with no small objects or toxins in reach. Provide a comfortable place for them to sleep and access to fresh water.
Commit to ongoing training. Work on basic obedience and use positive reinforcement techniques to continually teach good manners and behaviors. Consider signing up for group training classes.
Ensure proper healthcare with regular veterinary checkups, vaccinations, preventative care, and prompt attention to any injuries or illnesses. Keep their flea, tick and heartworm prevention up-to-date.
By meeting your dog’s fundamental needs for exercise, socialization, safety, training, and healthcare, you’ll form a closer bond and help them be a happy, well-adjusted canine companion.