If you’ve spent any time researching dog behaviour or training methods, you’ve probably come across the idea that dogs are constantly trying to dominate their guardians. Maybe you’ve been told:
- “Your dog pulls on the lead because they want to be in charge.”
- “If you let your dog on the sofa, they’ll think they’re the boss.”
- “You have to show your dog who’s alpha, or they’ll walk all over you.”
This is outdated advice based on dominance theory, a myth that has been repeatedly disproven by science. But despite that, it just won’t go away.
The good news? Dogs aren’t trying to dominate you. And that’s actually a huge relief for you as a dog guardian.
What Is Dominance Theory, and Why Is It Wrong?
The dominance myth comes from old wolf studies that suggested wolves live in rigid hierarchies where an ‘alpha’ controls the pack through force. However, even the scientist who originally pushed this idea, David Mech, later admitted he was wrong. Wild wolves don’t behave this way, and dogs aren’t wolves.
Modern canine behaviour research shows that dogs don’t live in strict dominance hierarchies, and they don’t spend their time trying to overthrow their humans. Instead, they simply do what works for them based on their past experiences and reinforcement history.
So if your dog ignores your recall, it’s not because they’re trying to be in charge—it’s because sniffing that interesting patch of grass is more rewarding than coming back to you.
What Is Dominance Theory, and Why Is It Wrong?
Believing in dominance makes life with your dog much harder. If you think your dog is constantly trying to challenge you, then every behaviour becomes a battle.
- Your dog jumps on the sofa? Power struggle.
- They pull on the lead? Defying authority.
- They growl when you take a chew away? Trying to ‘control’ you.
Except… they’re not. Your dog isn’t plotting to take over your household. They’re just being a dog.
What Is Dominance Theory, and Why Is It Wrong?
I’ve been there myself. Take Austin, my Jack Russell cross. He used to bite people and scream at other dogs. Back then, I believed in dominance theory—and I tried to pin him down.
If you’ve ever attempted to pin down a Jack Russell, you’ll know it’s about as easy as wrestling a caffeinated squirrel. Would not recommend! It wasn’t a pleasant experience for either of us. He didn’t suddenly respect me as his leader, and I certainly didn’t feel like I’d won anything. All it did was make him more anxious and defensive.
It wasn’t until I let go of the dominance mindset and focused on force-free dog training that things changed. With the right approach, Austin learned that people weren’t a threat, and he didn’t have to scream at every dog in sight. Now? He’s a little old man who mostly demands food and enjoys a good snooze.
When Ozzie (all 40kg of him!) growls at Austin, my ancient 16-year-old terrier, it’s not some power grab. He’s just saying, “Oi… personal space, yeah?” Imagine of, instead of understanding that, I told him off for communicating. Poor lad would just bottle it up and then explode later. Not exactly the calm household vibe we’re going for.
[Austin & Ozzie in photo]
Why It’s a Good Thing That Dominance Isn’t Real
So why is it actually good that dominance theory is a myth? Because it makes life simpler, less stressful, and more enjoyable for both you and your dog.
1. No More Power Struggles
You don’t have to “win” against your dog. Dog training isn’t about proving you’re the alpha—it’s about working together. Your dog is not your rival; they’re your teammate.
2. Your Dog Isn’t Trying to Take Over Your Life
You can stop worrying that letting your dog sleep in your bed will cause them to overthrow your household government. They just like being close to you. That’s it.
3. You Can Focus on What Actually Works
Instead of outdated, forceful methods designed to “put your dog in their place,” you can use science-based, positive reinforcement training.
- Want your dog to come when called? Make coming back to you more rewarding than whatever they’re doing.
- Want loose lead walking? Teach them that walking nicely gets them what they want.
4. You’ll Have a Better Relationship With Your Dog
When you stop seeing your dog’s behaviour as a challenge to your authority, you can actually start seeing them. Their emotions, their needs, their struggles—and all the good things they do. Dog training becomes about communication and trust, not control.
So What Should You Do Instead?
If dominance isn’t real, how should you approach training?
- Use force-free, positive reinforcement training. Reward the behaviours you want to see more of.
- Understand the ‘why’ behind the behaviour. Dogs do things for a reason—not to “defy” you.
- Set them up for success. Make it easy for them to get things right.
Focus on trust, not fear. A relationship built on cooperation is far more rewarding than one based on control.
Final Thoughts: Let’s Leave the Dominance Myth in the Past
Dominance theory isn’t just outdated—it’s unnecessary. Once you let go of the idea that your dog is trying to control you, dog training becomes easier, your relationship improves, and life gets a whole lot less stressful.
So next time someone tells you that your dog is “trying to be dominant,” you can just smile, nod, and know that actually, you and your dog are doing just fine—without the myth.
Need help building trust with your dog? Come join me inside the Calm Canine Club. No alpha rolls, no intimidation — just kindness, understanding, and plenty of support from someone who’s been there and got the muddy pawprints to prove it.