Ways That Dogs Try to Gain Dominance

Dogs use their voice, body and teeth to assert authority over people and other animals. Domesticated dogs don't rely on a dominance-based social structure as much as their wild brethren, but their desire to position themselves within a household's social hierarchy is a common source of problems for pet owners.

  1. Body Language

    • If your dog has a thing for staring contests, he may be trying to assert himself in the household's social sphere. A dominant dog maintains direct eye contact, while submissive ones tend to look away out of respect, according to Northern Virginia Community College Veterinary Technology Program. Your pup will keep his tail and legs stiff as he walks to show he is gunning for the position of top dog. Head elevation also is a big deal in the canine world. Alpha dogs keep their chin up, while those in the lower ranks of the pack keep their head down and are likely to roll over on their backs to show they are not a threat.

    Threats

    • When body language isn't enough to keep the pack in line, your dog may attempt to gain dominance through a policy of intimidation. Growling, lip-lifting snarls and other menacing behavior means violence is no longer a distant possibility. If the target of the threatening behavior doesn't back down or show signs of submission, there's a good chance your pet will make good on his threats and attack. Dogs tend to stick with what works. If growling gets him what he wants, there's a good chance he will continue to use the strategy in the future

    Fighting

    • Fights can build up from a minor disagreement about who should get a toy, but they also can erupt seemingly out of nowhere. Violence is particularly problematic between two dogs who refuse to back down. If neither party is willing to cede ground, there's a good chance they will continue to fight on a regular basis. Dogs battle for dominance by seeking an elevated position over their adversary. When one party rolls over, the fight usually ends. If your dog attacks you or another pet, make a sudden loud noise rather than striking the animal. This is more effective than corporal punishment and allows you to avoid associating your hands with pain in your dog's mind.

    Dealing with Dominant Behavior

    • Never punish your dog by hurting him, even if he is being nasty. If he is projecting dominant behavior and threatening members of the household, then it's time for an attitude adjustment. Start keeping all the doors in the house closed, so that your dog needs your help to pass through them, according to the ASPCA. Of course, he always should have access to water and his bed. Only give him treats when he obeys verbal commands. If you have two or more dogs, try feeding and giving attention to them separately to curb their jealousy. Talk to an animal behavioral specialist or your vet about strategies for dealing with dominant behavior in your pet.