How to Be the Pack Leader for Your Dog

This information is taken from “Cesar’s Way,” by Cesar Millan, aka “THE DOG WHISPERER.”
If you are strongly, and calmly directing your canine friend, then you are right on target!!!
Cesar is a dog trainer and founder of the Dog Psychology Center in Santa Clara, California.  He is well-known through his work, helping people learn to deal with aggressive or agitated and overly-anxious dogs.

Cesar addresses the dog’s needs, as well as the person’s needs.  He makes the point that dogs are not wired like people.  They give us unconditional love and we, in return, need to understand and respect their needs.  Dogs live in packs in the wild and there is a psychology that goes with the pack mentality.  They are most content when there is a pack leader who is calm yet assertive and in control.  In your house, that would be you.

When dogs and humans live together, the dog needs to be in a calm-submissive state of mind.  The person in the relationship needs to project CALM-ASSERTIVE energy.  When this happens, the dog relaxes.    This takes discipline on the person’s part.  Dogs read energy and movements of people.  They know where you are “coming from.”  They can’t be fooled.  They need a pack leader more than a buddy.  And they need this first, before affection and play.

You tell them when to wake up, when to eat, where to go and at what pace, where to pee, when to rest, when to chase and not chase, and when to roll over.  Your dog should also receive at least thirty minutes of exercise, at least twice a day.  That is where your friendly dog walker comes in, as walking, like for people, is excellent for dogs.  A regular walk is “vital,” and can prevent destructive behavior such as chewing up your belongings, or being aggressive with other dogs. If this sounds controlling on the person’s part, it is designed that way, leading your dog to feel more relaxed and comfortable.Before leaving the house, the dog must be in a calm, submissive state.  You should always go out the door first, in front of your dog.  The dog should not go in front of the person unless he/she is given permission.

If you are not “doing it right” by Cesar’s standards, don’t feel too bad. Oprah Winfrey, a very strong leader with people, was afraid to walk her small dog because she was afraid she would get into fights with other dogs.  Cesar was able to teach her to be a calm, assertive leader with her dog who became able to be around other dogs, even in a pack.  He says, “I rehabilitate dogs. I train people.” In other words, people need to be taught how to be appropriate with dogs, and then, a special bonding happens.

If you need training with your dog, call us at Dallas Neighborhood Pet Sitting and we will suggest several local trainer options.  And, for that twice a day exercise, calls us anytime. We love to walk your dogs!

​Ref:  Millan, Cesar (First ed.2006). Melissa Jo Peltier.  CESAR’S WAY, THE NATURAL EVERYDAY GUIDE TO UNDERSTANDING AND CORRECTING COMMON DOG PROBLEMS).  Harmony Press.