The Wolf Pack Theory
The idea originates from the 'wolf pack' theory. Rudolph Schenkel published a paper on the theory in 1947. He observed wolves in an enclosed environment, noting that the zoo's pack consisted of two key roles: a female bitch and a male lead wolf. Both would exert control to maintain their social dominance. In later studies observing wolves in the wild, their natural environment, scientists found that wolves take on a more co-operative approach. They operate as a family unit, for the good of the whole pack, guided by the activities of a female (mother) and male (father). This disputes wolf pack theory that they are led by the motivations of an individual alpha.
Dog's Are Not Wolves
Dogs are not wolves and have been following a separate lineage for thousands of years.
They have also been selectively bred by humans for hundreds of years to become our perfect companions.
Although some dogs share a resemblance with wolves, they are different creatures and require different needs!
In Conclusion
Dominance training assumes the human should dominate the dog into correcting its behaviour. This is usually carried out through punitive measures such as:
- Choke collars
- Pinning the dog to the ground (alpha rolls)
- Even hitting/squeezing
Trust should lead all training, through understanding and positive reinforcement. Understand your dog and encourage them to behave differently with reward, praise and play. This will create a relationship of trust, respect and leadership which will result in a more fulfilling life for all involved.