All to often, dog trainers get hysterical, panic-stricken phone calls from frustrated dog owners.
They have reached the end of their rope, with their defiant dog.
Their primary complaint, their dog does not take them seriously.
If your dog believes, "You are not the boss of me", then you are both in trouble right from the get-go.
The survival of a pack depends on everyone in it, knowing his or her place.
This may come as a news flash to your belligerent, canine friend, but their place is at the bottom of YOUR pack.
None-the-less, the reason why they are under this rather common misconception that they are pack leader is your fault! Your inability to provide leadership, has given them the opportunity to seize it.
A thriving, healthy pack is not a democracy.
It's more like maritime law.
No one questions the captain.
The only difference is, ALL humans on your particular ship, are captains.
To prevent rebellion and mutiny, the "captains" must be fair, firm and consistent.
Experienced salty dogs know, when they understand and respect boundaries and rules, there are clear skies, smooth sailing and lots of treasures.
An intelligent captain knows, to gain the cooperation and respect of his crew, he must be fair, firm, and consistent, as well as openhanded.
Crews that share in the bounty are less apt to mutiny.
The same hold true for your dog.
Dogs that are rewarded for appropriate behaviors, be it praise, treats or toys, are more likely to repeat that behavior because they associate it with treasure.
Dogs that are confused because of the lack of consistency, scared because of a lack of fairness or defiant because of lack of firmness or consequences, will persistently challenge your authority.
Bottom line: Create boundaries.
Treat your dog like a dog, and not a child.
Be fair, firm and consistent with rules.
Be generous with earned bounties.
By following those four simple rules, you will find your salty dog more willing to comply.