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A few thoughts on dealing with a dominant puppy.

I like this article and have read it a number of times over the last 8 years. http://inch.com/~dogs/taming.html

The sorts of things we work with include;

“If puppy is not allowed to do it then it is never allowed to do it” – Be consistent and decide early what is acceptable

“No free lunches” – The dog always has to do something, even if it is only ‘sit’ for its meal.

“My toys” – We control the toys when they are played with and when they go away. A ball is great for this.

“Alpha goes first” – Puppy isn’t allowed to rush through doorways, he has to wait and as he gets older sit before coming in or out.

“Alpha eats first” – We share food with are dogs but only after we have eaten. See “No free lunches”

“No puppies on the furniture” – The furniture is for us and ensuring puppy stays on the ground reinforces his status.

“No jumping up” – Cute in a puppy but very unpleasant in a 45K ball of muscle.

“Handle puppy often” – Regular grooming, touching, massaging and handling puppy, insist that he sit still for this.

There is a direct link between dominance and territory. Limiting the size of his territory and increase the size of yours; take him to as many unfamiliar places as possible.

I also highly recommend crate training. This firstly ensures that he is comfortable in a crate in case he ever needs to travel or spend time at the vets. It also teaches him that you are in control of his space.

Steve