Alpha dog? Time for the concept to be unleashed

[michele5611]

content.usatoday.com/communities/pawprintpost/post/2010/07/alpha-dog-time-for-the-concept-to-be-unleashed/1

[RealPitBull]

That is SOOOOOOOOO good. I love that he links it to the German Military and just plants those seeds in peoples' minds to start forming a bad association with dominance-based training.

[Dave]

When I had gotten to a four dog household years ago, it really opened my eyes to how dominance and leadership roles would change in different situations. All of a sudden it became clear to me there is really no clearcut dominant dog in the pack, only the dominant dog at that time, in that situation.

I really feel that many times we confuse the dogs with how we react to their situations, thinking we need to react one way when another less obvious way would be more appropriate, or even no reaction at all.

Jeeze, if I tried those old dominant training exercises on Rocky, he'd die of fright. He's the most sensitive dog I've ever met. I can praise him with a smile, would have the same effect as a treat. Even the word "no" needs to be tempered or he acts like I shot him. ;D

[RealPitBull]

Yup, exactly Dave! "Dominance" is a fluid concept that changes based on the situation. It is not a personality trait, like some people claim.

[suziriot]

Love this!

[apbt]

it's my opinion that positive reinforcement goes a long way with dogs. i would much rather a dog be eager and excited when dealing with training sessions as opposed to fearful and uncertain. I've watched dog training take on a refreshing change over the years. seems the "old school" way is slowly becoming passe' as schools, owners and trainers are all realizing you really do "catch more bees with honey". I am currently stuyding the books of the Animal Behavorial College and their method of teaching is based on positive reinforcement, as well.

[sugar]

I was walking Chubs this morning and someone commented he looked good. I said thanks and they asked me how I handled him because "pits are dominant alpha types".
I told the man that "No, he's not Alpha. He didn't fill out the proper paperwork for that position"
Guy looked at me confused, lol.