Who's The Boss

There's no question who is in charge of the relationship between you and your dog, right? After all, you control the food and the rewards. And anyway, your well-trained dog, no matter how large in size, would never try to dominate you. Think again. Dogs are pack animals and every pack has an alpha dog - the lead dog in charge. And that's not determined by size or physical dominance, but behavior. Is your behavior telling your dog that you're in charge?

How to become the leader of your pack:

• Exhibit confidence in speech, stance and when interacting with your dog.
• Be consistent with commands and direction.
• Control the resources - feed him on a schedule.
• Enroll in a good obedience training class.

Failure to establish your leadership could result in an aggressive or domineering dog. Remember, your dog wants and respects leadership. In its absence, he will assume control.