Being the Pack Leader.

In all aspects of dog training you will be told,

‘Be the pack leader’

But what does this mean? How can you be the pack leader?

To understand your dog’s behavior best, you need to step back and see things through your dogs eyes. Understand the breed of dog you have, research them so you can have the best knowledge on them possible. This is something you should have done previously to make sure you were getting the right dog for your lifestyle. Dog’s are pack animals, it is in their natural instinct and no matter what breed, they need to understand you are the leader of your pack and that they must listen to you. This does not in any way mean to be aggressive or physically discipline your dog - this will only teach them to be scared of you and could bring out aggressive behavior of their own. Over the next few weeks we are going to cover some excellent tips on how you can be the ‘Pack Leader’ and build a happier relationship between you and your pet.

Create a regular time for walking, stick to this schedule. When walking your dog, make sure he is walking beside you or behind you, never in front. When your dog is walking in front of you he is being the pack leader, in his mind he is leading the way, when he is beside or behind you he is walking where you want him to.

At home make sure you always walk through the door first, never allow your dog to lead the way. Remember to always think in a pack leader’s way – you are the alpha leader.

Scooby, posing for a photo!