Re: establishing dominance with a new puppy?

In Reply to: establishing dominance with a new puppy?
Category:   General Training
Posted by:  Cyndie valentine
Posted on:  March 30, 2002 at 09:50:08

: March 30,2002
: Hello,
: I greatly appreciate this! I just got a 9 week old puppy and we are working on housebreaking but, my question is with establishing dominance over the puppy. I had a 2 year old male dog for a short time. (from the humane society) I had trouble establishing the alfa male role with him he would not take any correction or instruction with out a struggle. (He is no longer with us) I don't want to go through this again! So, how do I start early so, he knows who is boss? I am the main one who takes care of him and spend the most time with him. I have three children and my husband is very busy so the position needs to be mine.

: Thank you,
: Cyndie

Response:

Hi Cyndie,

Your 9 week old puppy has just been removed from the only environment he has ever known. He needs love and attention and routine to feel secure in his new surroundings...and he needs this from every member of the family.

You don't establish dominance over a dog, you earn it. Being an "alpha" is more about teaching the rules rather then enforcing them, Cyndie. You will get better results if you teach your pup what to do then if you force him to do it.

Your entire family needs to be involved in raising this pup; this includes not only day to day interaction but also attending training class together. I assure you that you will have problems if you are the only person your terrier respects.