If your dog is not listening or obeying your commands, not coming with called or basically lacking all respect, your beloved pet could be demonstrating signs of ALPHA.  Your household should not be one of a negotiating democracy; boundaries and structure will strengthen the bond and relationship with your dog.  By following these suggestions you will be sending a message to your pup that you are the provider and leader of your “pack.”  Be firm, be patient, be consistent, be benevolent but be ALHPA!  If you fail to demonstrate leadership, your dog will assume the role and very quickly that “cute, little, adorable puppy” with morph into “that darn dog!”

Use these exercises until you get things back on the right track and then you can “loosen the reins.”  Individually, these exercises will offer little results but collectively they can do wonders.* 

• Kick the dog out of bed for a couple of nights!  I know this can be excruciatingly difficult but sleep with you should be the greatest of all privileges.  Where a dog sleeps in the pack can determine rank.  If your dog sleeps in the bed unconditionally then you run the risk of the dog seeing you as an equal.  If your pup jumps into bed uninvited then say “OFF!”  Make sure your pet “sits” and “asks permission” to join you for the night.
• Get you dog’s attention buy using the focus command. Begin with a “sit” and move your hand up to your nose having the dog make eye contact. This command is so important as it opens up channels of communication, strengthening the bond and fosters a leader-follower relationship.
• Your dog needs to depend on you for food. Your dog needs to understand that you are the provider and therefore do not free feed…meaning don’t leave the food out all day. Mealtimes are to be structured and used as an opportunity to train. Have your dog do a “sit”.  If your dog offers the “sit” command automatically then use the “down” command.
• Eat first. This suggestion won’t apply to most but if your dog is really out of control and ALPHA then consider consuming something while making your dog’s meal…even if it’s just a cup coffee in the morning or a glass of wine or beverage in the evening. Remember, leaders eat first!
• Always be seen as the provider. This includes, treats, toys, praise and sleeping privileges. These are rewards for good behavior and a command should always proceed.  If your dog is demanding your attention then use the “sit” command before offer praise or throwing the ball.
• Leaders go first. Don’t allow your dog to run out the door before you. Have your dog do a “sit-stay” or a “no-street” command and give the “okay, let’s go” as the release.
• Your dog must yield to you. For example, if your dog is lying in the hallway blocking passage, don’t step over or walk around, have your dog get up and do a “sit” and then pass. If your dog is lounging on the couch then make it a point to take his/her spot.
• Follow through on your commands. Use firm low tones and do not negotiate with tenacity. If necessary, tap the rear and have the dog go into a “sit.”  If your dog is not “coming when called” then use the leash in the house or backyard.
• You always win! You control the toys and control the game. If your dog tries to initiate then use a command to send a signal that you are the provider of entertainment.  Remember, you end the game by taking the toy and putting it away or have the dog do a command and give the toy back and end the game on your terms.
• *If your dog is exhibiting serious behavioral problems please consult The Urban pet and schedule and in-home private training session.