Problem: Dominance Issue
If your dog refuses to get off the furniture, nudges you until you pet or play with him, does not come when called, and defends his food bowl or toys, you have a dominance problem.
A dog behavior training tip I call "Earn It" may be the best dog behavior tip to correct this problem and be the answer you're looking for. "Earn It" is not a magic remedy to solve a specific problem, but rather, is a way of coaching and instructing your dog, that will help him improve his overall behavior. By trusting you as leader, he will become more confident and learn his place in the family.
How to Practice "Earn It"
* Use positive reinforcement methods (treats work best, also petting and verbal praise, or all three) to teach your dog a few commands and/or tricks. "Sit," "Down," and "Stay" are useful basic commands. "Shake," "Speak," and "Roll over" are fun tricks to teach your dog.
* Once your dog has mastered a few commands, you can begin to practice "Earn It." Before you give your dog anything (food, a treat, a walk, a pat on the head) he must first perform one of the commands he has learned. For example:
YOU: YOUR DOG:
Put your dog's leash on to go for a walk: Must sit until you've put the leash on
Feed your dog: Must lie down and stay until you've put the bowl down
Play a game of fetch after work: Must sit and "shake hands" each time you throw the toy
Rub your dog's belly while watching TV: Must lie down and roll over before being petted
* Once you've given the command, don't give your dog what he wants until he does what you want. If he refuses to perform the command, walk away, come back a few minutes later, and start again. If your dog refuses to obey the command, be patient and remember that eventually he will have to obey your command to get what he wants.
* Make sure your dog knows the command well and understands what you want before you begin practicing "Earn It."
The Benefits of this dog behavior tip:
* Most dogs assume a neutral or submissive role toward people, but some dogs will challenge their owners for dominance. Requiring a dominant dog to work for everything he wants is a safe, non-confrontational way to establish control.
* Dogs who may never display aggressive behavior such as growling, snarling, or snapping may still manage to manipulate you. These dogs may display affectionate behavior that borders on being "pushy," such as nudging your hand to be petted or "worming" their way onto the furniture to be close to you. This behavior tip gently reminds the dog that he must obey your rules.
* Anxious dogs may become more confident by obeying commands. Having a strong leader and knowing his place in the pecking-order helps to make a submissive dog feel more safe and secure.
Why This Behavior Tip Works:
Animals who live in groups, like dogs, establish a social structure within the group called a dominance hierarchy. This dominance hierarchy serves to maintain order, reduce conflict, and promote cooperation among pack members. To best maintain a safe, and happy environment for both dogs and humans, its best if the humans are on the high end of the dominance hierarchy in your home. Practicing "Earn It" gently, consistently and effectively, communicates to your dog that his position in the hierarchy is subordinate to yours.
From your dog's point of view, children also have a place in this hierarchy. Because children are small and can get down on the dog's level to play, dogs often consider them to be playmates rather than superiors. With the supervision of an adult, it's a good idea to encourage children in the household who are eight years or older to also practice "Earn It" with the family dog.
