Does It Matter Which of Your Dogs Walks First in the Pack?

When dogs socialize, they will naturally adhere to a pack hierarchy, with the most dominant dog calling the shots. The dominant dog will assert his status using a number of gestures and behaviors, one of which is pushing his way to the front of the pack when walking. Among dogs this is fine, but dominant dogs must learn never to push in front of humans when walking.

  1. The Dominant Dog Walks First

    • A dog who persistently takes the ̶0;me first̶1; approach in life is typically driven to do so by his urge for dominance. He̵7;ll push past other dogs, refuse to move out of anyone̵7;s way and pull on the leash during walks. In the wild, the pack̵7;s dominant dog will eat first and be responsible for seeing off threats, so it makes perfect sense for him to go ahead of other pack members. But such behavior is also consistent with a dog who is just too excited to hold back, as opposed to dominant. If you̵7;ve got a dog who is otherwise passive and compliant but just can̵7;t help pushing ahead when walking, it is entirely plausible that his excitement has gotten the better of him.

    Domestic Manifestations

    • The urge to walk first can manifest itself in a variety domestic scenarios, often with inconvenient consequences. Walks may become a chore for the owner of a dog who refuses to heel as they constantly battle against the will of the dog. A dog with a dominant or alpha demeanor may also push or barge past others in order to get through a doorway first. It's not necessarily a problem for everyone, but generally, a properly trained dog knows to let you give the command before bolting.

    Letting Nature Take Its Course

    • If you have a group of dogs at home, they̵7;ll decide between themselves who is top dog; that dog will typically remain so indefinitely. It̵7;s wise to never try to alter the dynamics of a dog pack, as this causes confusion and can lead to power squabbles. Never try to ̶0;equalize̶1; or give the weaker dogs a leg up in the food chain by showing them favor. Greet the dominant dog first, feed him first and leash him first before walkies. Not only does this reinforce the already established pack dynamic among the dogs, it cements your role as ultimate pack leader -- and it keeps the dominant dog from snapping at whatever dogs you favor.

    Curbing This Behavior

    • If your dog is unclear on the fact that you are undisputed leader of the pack, he may think he̵7;s top boy and will act accordingly. If necessary, assert yourself by setting up scenarios where he might try to walk ahead, pull on the leash or push his way past you. Once he tries it, physically stop him. If he pulls the leash, make him sit each time and give verbal rewards when he walks to heel. If he tries to push through a doorway in front of you, gently prevent him from doing so with your leg, then say ̶0;wait.̶1; With sufficient repetition, he̵7;ll learn to wait his turn.