04/10/2025
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🐾Although dogs descend from a common ancestor with wolves, they have undergone millennia of domestication and genetic engineering, resulting in distinct differences from their wild counterparts. Despite this misconceptions about canine behaviour persist, perpetuating unrealistic expectations and outdated training methods.
Such myths revolve around the idea of dogs as inherently naughty, stubborn, and trying to be the leader of the pack, requiring punishment for correction [1]. The original study of wolves and behaviour was conducted in 1947 by Rudolph Schenkel, who claimed that wolves hold a social position, the pack is controlled by a dominant male and female; and wolves fought within each other to establish top rank. This was disproved by Dr. Mech in 2000 [2].
The world evolves constantly yet the human race is still stuck on this notion. Qualified dog trainers and behaviourists are not trying to convince you that the world is flat, we are simply trying to improve your relationship with your dog without the use of outdated training mythology.
In reality; natural wolf groups function as family units, with parents as caregivers. Communication within the wolf group relies heavily on subtle cues, such as body language and facial expressions, rather than overt displays of aggression and dominance.
Despite scientific advancements debunking the alpha dog theory, some trainers continue to perpetuate these myths, advocating for dominance-based techniques. However, the lack of regulation in the industry allows such outdated practices to persist.
Understanding dogs requires acknowledging their individuality and respecting their preferences.
Effective training involves environmental management, systematic desensitisation, and counter-conditioning, with the use of positive reinforcement; which helps dogs understand desired behaviours without resorting to punitive measures [3]. Using modern, evidence-based methods helps build healthier, more respectful relationships with the dogs we share our lives with.
Television has also played a significant role. Many networks promote trainers who rely on dominance-based methods, where compliance is achieved through coercion and correction. While this may look effective on screen, the reality is that dogs often respond out of fear and avoidance rather than genuine understanding and willingness.
Dominance is often misunderstood as a personality trait, when in fact it is better understood as a survival strategy often rooted in fear or anxiety. Punishing a dog for unwanted behaviour does not teach them what to do instead, and because behaviour stems from underlying emotions, punishment fails to resolve the emotional challenges driving the behaviour.
Helping your dog with the emotions driving their behaviour is what truly leads to lasting change[4]. Many people turn to outdated or inappropriate methods simply because they’re often just overwhelmed and unsure of how else to cope with the problems they’re facing.
Today, qualified professionals understand that the human–dog relationship is not about asserting social rank. It’s about creating an environment where dogs feel secure. This means managing their surroundings to prevent situations where they might struggle, and consistently reinforcing the behaviours we want to encourage.
Our dogs don’t need us to be their ‘boss’, they need us to be their guide, their support, and their safe place.
[1] 2008, Position Statement on the Use of Dominance Theory in Behavior Modification of Animals, AVSAB, https://avsab.org/.../Dominance_Position_Statement...
[2]Mech, L. David. 1999. Alpha status, dominance, and division of labor in wolf packs. Canadian Journal of Zoology 77:1196-1203.
Jamestown, ND: Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center Home Page. http://www.npwrc.usgs.gov/resource/2000/alstat/alstat.htm
(Version 16MAY2000).
[3] Herron M, Shofer S, Reisner I, 2009, Survey of the use and outcome of confrontational and non-confrontational training methods in client-owned dogs showing undesired behaviors, Applied Animal Behaviour Science, Volume 117, Issues 1–2, Pages 47-54
[4] Herron M, Shofer F, Reisner I, 2009, Survey of the use and outcome of confrontational and non-confrontational training methods in client-owned dogs showing undesired behaviors, Applied Animal Behavior Science, Volume 117, Issue-12, https://www.sciencedirect.com/.../pii/S0168159108003717...
