There is no such thing as an “alpha dog.” Let me explain.

👇👇

Dogs do not function as a pack with a single, undisputed “alpha” leader. This is a myth originating from an almost 100-year-old study conducted on captive wolves.

The sample was ad hoc extrapolated to a population parameter for domesticated dogs.

However, domesticated dogs are not wild wolves, and as we all know, their behavior is quite different.

Which is why many of us don’t have wild wolves sleeping at the foot of our beds, but that goes without saying.

Likewise, domesticated dogs don’t behave the same as wild dogs. They are naturally more subordinate and don’t need to scavenge or compete for resources. Humans provide them with all their needs.

In reality, wild dogs have evolved to scavenge on their own, while wolves are pack hunters that prey on living animals through teamwork.

There are key behavioral differences between wolves and dogs that should prevent them from being directly compared.

Thus, the issue lies in the integrity of the original study. Unfortunately, there are numerous similar incidents throughout scientific history that compromise our foundational knowledge base.

This single study has given rise to an entire industry of harsh, domineering, and often cruel dog training methods. These strategies rely on fear induction, domination, and the concept of “becoming the alpha.”

This approach is not only unnecessary but also a psychologically unhealthy method of rearing for any intelligent life form.

The best dog training methods are quite similar to those used to modify human behavior.

More successful tips for training your dog would include things like:

👍 Operant Conditioning (Skinner): This is a learning process in which behavior is influenced by consequences. Positive reinforcement increases the likelihood of repeating a behavior by offering rewards, while negative reinforcement strengthens behavior by removing unpleasant stimuli. Punishment, conversely, decreases the likelihood of behavior repetition (negative reinforcement doesn’t mean punishment, it means not giving a treat).

👍Scaffolding (Vygotsky): This technique is typically used for human children but can also be applied to dogs, particularly if you have more than one.

• The dog in training can learn from the more experienced dog by repeatedly observing the successful completion of a task and the subsequent reward.
• Another example is to reward your dog for improving at the task. Even if she hasn’t fully mastered it yet, recognizing her progress and the steps she’s learning toward the ultimate goal should also earn a reward. Progress rewards maintain high incentives for achievement, keeping our dogs actively engaged in the learning process.

👍Classical Conditioning (Pavlov): This is a learning process where a neutral stimulus becomes associated with an unconditioned stimulus to elicit a conditioned response. Through repeated pairings, the neutral stimulus alone can trigger the response, exemplified by Pavlov’s dogs salivating at the sound of a bell previously paired with food.
• Clicker training: This method involves using a handheld clicker (which makes a clicking sound) each time you give a command and treat. This elicits the reward response in your dog, and eventually, the clicker becomes unnecessary. I recommend making the clicking sound with your mouth instead, allowing you to ‘be the clicker’. This approach can yield heightened obedience from your dog at no additional cost.

Doesn’t that make much more sense?
Subscribe for more stories like this!

💡💡💡💡

By: Danielle Sloan, MBA Candidate