Is Your Dog Trying to be Your Boss?
In one of my training guides I say that it’s not always a good idea to allow your dog on the bed or couch. I say this because some dogs can get a little too comfy and see the bed or couch as their territory; you may have seen (or even owned) a dog that growls or snaps when you or another tries to sit on the couch with the dog. In this situation the dog’s reaction is a sign that it is ‘guarding’ an important resource, that is, the comfy bed or couch!
If your dog is quite obedient and tends to listen to you, then I think it’s okay to relax that rule. This is especially true if your dog has never snapped or growled at you.
If you allow your dog on the bed or couch, then it is important that your dog gets off the bed or couch upon your command. In this way you maintain your status as pack leader.
If your dog ‘guards’ the bed or couch, I would discourage you from allowing the dog on the furniture.
If you were to ask a dog why it growls when you approach the couch, it may say: “This is mine and I think I have a right to this over you.“ A dog is more likely to have this attitude if you don’t train it often and exercise leadership.
I have written this blog in respose to a question from one of my fans. If you need any clarification on my training techniques, then feel free to post a comment here or on my facebook page. If you agree with my comments, I’d love to hear from you. If you disagree, then please let me know too. I am open to suggestions and debate. Having said that, if you want to take a personal shot at me (as one fan recently did), just keep this in mind: “An insult says more about the person giving the insult, rather than the person for whom the insult was intended.”
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About the Author
Mia Montagliani, known by her clients as "The Aussie Dog Whisperer", is a highly sought after expert in dog training. Discover how you can apply the same techniques as professional dog trainers to improve your dog's behaviour by downloading Mia's complimentary dog training guides and video. Don't forget to follow Mia on Facebook.
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