Alpha training, also known as dominance training, is based on the concept of the wolf pack hierarchy, where you, as the dog owner, are viewed as the pack leader.
The approach to alpha training may vary from one trainer to another. While some elements may remain consistent, there are always unique aspects in each training session.
Let’s delve deeper into alpha training.
Pros of Alpha Training
Alpha training can be effective when dealing with aggressive dogs, particularly those that display aggressive behaviors around children or exhibit snarling and growling when approached near their food or toys.
Cons of Alpha Training
Dominance or “alpha dog” training has several drawbacks and may not be the best approach to training your dog. It can have a negative impact on the relationship between you and your dog.
In alpha training, you, the owner, are regarded as the superior entity, always above your dog. You’re never seen as an equal to your dog. Alpha training discourages practices such as allowing your dogs onto furniture where you’re seated or lowering yourself to your dog’s level.
Alpha training doesn’t yield as many positive results as other training methods. Its cons often outweigh its pros.
Myths About Alpha Dogs
Dogs that bark, snarl, or growl are often mistakenly seen as trying to assert dominance over their owners. However, these behaviors are typically defensive reactions.
In a household with multiple dogs, one dog may appear to dominate the others to get what it wants. But this is not necessarily a display of dominance. Rather, it could be a reflection of anxiety, insecurity, or jealousy, as the dog seeks to be the favored pet in the household. The dynamics can also shift, with the seemingly dominant dog being dominated by the others. This fluctuates with time and situation. Hence, the notion of a dog trying to be the alpha is largely a myth.
Current Status of Alpha Training Methods
Alpha dog training is considered an outdated method. In the past, people believed in showing their dog who was the boss. However, training methods have evolved over time, and the drawbacks of alpha training are now more widely recognized.
Nowadays, dogs are often trained using relationship-based methods and are treated as family members. Though alpha training has largely fallen out of favor, some trainers still employ this method.
Previously, people believed that dogs were descendants of wolves and thus adopted alpha training techniques. However, this theory has been scientifically disproven, leading to a gradual move away from this method.
