Establishing Yourself as Pack Leader
If you don’t adopt the role of your dog’s pack leader, you’ll find that he will take over that position for himself. This can lead to behavioral problems such as aggression, and also higher levels of anxiety.
Being pack leader doesn’t mean you have to be loud and harsh to your dog. It means being fair, even tempered and consistent. It is a leader’s job to set your dog’s boundaries, protect your pack and control resources like food and toys.
When you bring home a rescue dog, you must start as you mean to go on. Although you can expect a few teething problems, don’t make allowances for the fact he’s new to your family. Start teaching him straight away what the rules are. Use positive training methods, and repeat your training sessions regularly, and he’ll quickly learn what he can and can’t do.
You can set physical boundaries, such as having certain rooms that your dog isn’t allowed in, or not permitting him into your kitchen. You can also set mental rules, such as teaching that he’s not allowed to bark for attention. Both are an important part of teaching your dog where he fits into your pack.
You can make a one time donation. | Or a $10 recurring monthly donation. |
Sophie's Dog Adoptions is run solely by me, Sophie. I have been rescuing for over 15 years, one dog at a time and have placed over 600 so far. All my dogs are sterilized and vaccinated before adoption, and all applicants are fully screened before adoption. I believe in making the right matches for each dog and each family in order to give these dogs a real second chance. You can reach me by E-Mail: info@sophiesdogadoption.com or by Phone: (514) 523-5052 Please allow up to 48 hours calls and or emails will be returned in order of importance. 
