Is Your Lack Of Leadership Stressing Your Dog?

By Johnn Williams Jr.

Humans tend to project human behaviors and feelings on their dogs. We seem to do this in spite of their canine nature, and the way dogs truly see their world. In this article, my goal is to challenge you to see your daily interaction with your pet from a different perspective; and alpha male or pack-leader perspective.

Dogs are pack, migrant prone animals. This means they are accustomed to an "Alpha Male" leading them. The alpha dog or pack leader takes care of the other dogs. If your dog is not sure where they stand in your household or family, it can be confusing for them and even stressful.

The need for an alpha or pack leader does not change for your dog just because they are in a home environment. For example, you have arrived at home from work and your dog is seemingly excited to see you. It is barking, jumping and behaving almost like an excited child. We will likely misinterpret this as cute or that they are happy to see us. The reality is, you dog is trying to get YOU to do what IT wants as an alpha dog or pack-leader. It wants you to give it attention now. The solution instead would be to scold it by saying something like "no," or simply ignoring it. Then immediately walk off and do something else for a while. At this point, your dog may put their ears back and walk away as if their feelings are hurt. Here is the key, DO NOT coddle, or give them attention out of guilt at this time. Remember, they are of the canine species, not human. Let them be alone for a moment. The act of your dog walking away is their way of showing you respect as the alpha dog. When your dog calms down, then you call it and then show it affection. In this way, you are showing your pet that, as the pack leader, you will give them attention when YOU'RE ready.

Properly walking your dog presents another opportunity for them to see you as the alpha or pack leader. Here is a question: who leads when you walk your dog? The correct answer should be you. Some experts say that walking your dog properly even releases physical and mental stress for your pet.

When it is time to walk your dog, do not let him or her bolt for the front t door. I suggest that you open the door as your dog sits. Exit the door first and then call your dog to join you. This may take some time if you have already allowed them to lead. As you walk your dog, have your dog walk beside or behind you. If there is a distraction along the way like another dog, or a squirrel, get your dogs attention by a slight jerk on the collar and continue the walk. Do not allow them to sniff around and pee when THEY want. Permit them to do so when YOU want. If you stop to talk or check your mail, your dog should patiently wait and be calm. Lying down is okay. Again you are the pack leader. When you both arrive at home from your walk, do not pet your dog right away. Do a little something first then give your dog some attention. Establishing yourself as the alpha or pack-leader for your dog is what your dog is longing for and is exactly what it needs.

Johnn Williams - A 25+ year aviation professional, pet enthusiast, musician and writer, leads a highly professional team in the publishing of quality books that educate and entertain the reader. Johnn's new books: "Pomeranian Breed Of A Queen" and "The Boxer Scholar And Clown" is an informative read that will benefit any Pomeranian or Boxer owner. You find out more information on these books at http://myboxerbook.comand http://mypomeranian.net

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Johnn_Williams_Jr.