In the 1930’s Rudolph Schenkel, an animal behaviourist, studied two groups of captive wolves at a zoo in Switzerland attempting to identify the sociology of the wolf. He theorized those alpha wolves (the leader of the pack) were the wolves with the most resources, and used dominance, fear, and force to obtain those resources. In his research, Schenkel drew frequent incorrect parallels between wolves and domestic dogs. 

Later in the ‘60’s wildlife biologist, David Mech, initially reinforced the “alpha” or “dominance” theory.  However, later with the contribution and input from other animal behaviourists concluded that the alpha of wolves in the wild was more so obtained simply by mating and producing offspring and had nothing to do with “competing with others and becoming top dog by winning a contest or battle”.  In addition, dogs have since been recognized that they are not even pack animals.  Doggos no more see us as another doggo in competition for leadership, than a pride of lions would consider you to be the next Mane of their Pride.  Lions would just consider you lunch. A doggo just sees you as a hooman, with opposing thumbs that can get that treat jar open.

Since this research in the ‘60’s by David Mech and others, Animal Behaviourists have been trying to undo the damage that has been done by the dissemination of this false theory.

We need to remember that dogs are not wolves. Dog Behaviour Consultant Pat Miller, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, states, “Most of our canine companions don’t live in stable familial groups, but are randomly adopted into various homes, sometimes multiple homes over their lifetimes. Trying to apply conclusions about wolf behaviour to our understanding of dog behaviour is simply an exercise in futility, guaranteed to lead to inappropriate and ineffective training methods. Dogs are not wolves.”

Unfortunately, the concepts of the “alpha dog” and “being the dominant one” persist in some circles, particularly in the realm of aversive dog trainers that use these terms as catchphrases. They promote techniques that can damage the relationship between pets and their people. Additionally, it can damage the psyche and spirit of many doggos.  Normal dog behaviours that can be modified and managed, like pulling on walks, resource guarding, and growling, are mislabeled as “dominant” behaviours and guardians are encouraged to “show them who’s boss”. We do not promote nor condone these types of techniques or behaviour of our hoomans.

Positive reinforcement has been the most effective and science-based way to train your doggos. Consider this acronym when communicating with your doggo, you need to B.A.R.K..

B argain – If I do this, you’ll do that

A ction – your non-verbal/physical cue is easier to understand than your verbal

R eliability – be consistent, be predictable, be clear on your expectations

K udos – reinforcers are key