We, as humans, are all intruders on very fragile eco-systems in the wild. After killing off those that are eating our livestock, we constantly forget the importance of nature's fine element of balance. It hasn't been until recently that wolves are starting to make a comeback from feared killer to social, family orientated animal. Over time, humans have destroyed wolves leaving them fearful and shy of coming into contact with us in the wild. Much of the wolves' social structure is very similar to our own and yet they have been around much longer than we have. They taught us how to hunt and possibly could have taught us a primal social order- at least that's my guess anyway. Wolves must always work together to be successful as a close- knit family run by a strong pack leader.
As I grow to continue to learn about these animals, I see much more of what they can teach me about my interactions with dogs. So much so that I've made it a primary part of what I integrate into my daily client sessions. I develop social structure around food. Using growling as a means to keep the pecking order clear. I'm the Alpha female who rules the pack and every resource that's important to my dogs, comes to me first. Toys will sometimes be guarded and often, I initiate play, exercise, etc. This is all through speaking the language of canines and leaving the human language behind. I communicate to them using body language and even smile to show a sign of affection. Touch is very important and always comes as a reward or through play. This new form of dominance has not only shifted the way I interact with dogs but has led me to stead fast results.
Another form of dominance I use is to have first rights at any attention when a spouse comes home from work. Corrections are given very seldomly just as an Alpha wolf would but by making the bark much stronger than the bite.
The reaction I get from humans when I tell them this is usually a laugh but when I demonstrate the effects, I often see jaws drop. The bottom line is that the status of your pack must be kept always in sync. If this occurs, the dogs feel safer, secure and happier. Once pack status gets out of whack, that's when you will experience problems.
Thanks once again for another insight owed to our friends- the wolf…