Dominant dogs want to be the leaders of their households. For many dogs, this desire is instinctual, a gene passed down from their wolf ancestors. In a pack of wolves, the alpha male leads the pack until another male proves its dominance. Just as dominant dogs innately want to be leaders, they also have an intuitive sense of when to follow--when someone else (You!) proves to be the rightful leader.

Not all dogs are born fighters, or even aggressors, but that doesn't mean they aren't dominant in the household. Some dogs achieve dominance through incessant whining or pushiness. They simply do not accept no as an answer. If you allow your dog's tactics to dictate your activities or schedule, the dog is establishing dominance.

How Do I Know If My Dog Is Dominant?
If you are unsure whether or not your dog is dominant, consider the following questions:

• Who initiates play, you or the dog?

• Who sets the feeding time?

• When you tell your dog to go lay down while the family is eating, does he listen, or does he usually get what he wants?
  

Once Dominant Dogs start dictating one aspect of daily life, they usually see how far they can push things. Because dominance is not synonymous with aggression, your dog may have become leader of the pack without you realizing it. Many dogs learn to get their way by being cute and affectionate.

If you realize the dog has taken over the house, it's time to take action and reclaim your throne. This will take some retraining and persistence. Dominant but non-threatening gestures on your part, like walking through doorways first, eating first, and making your dog sit still for 30 seconds after you have poured his nightly dinner will make him reconsider who's really in charge. Make your dominant dog earn all rewards, even small things like pats on the head. By making your dog obey before giving him what he wants, you teach him that in order for life to be good, he must defer to you and your family.