A Dog for the Family
 
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Canine Behavior (cont)
Remember, the pack leader in a wolf pack doesn't threaten, cajole and coerce. He doesn't shriek in a shrill tone or rant and rave.  He doesn't wave a rolled up newspaper as he chases the poor unfortunate through the house.  He simply snaps at his subordinate and the subordinate backs off.  He holds no grudges.  Once discipline is meted out, life goes on. 

Reading your dog's body language is essential to proper communications.  Learn to speak his language. Here are some common gestures and their interpreted meanings:

  • Submissive Gestures
    • flattened ears
    • crouching
    • rolling onto back
    • dribbling urine
    •  licking
    • tail between legs
    • refusal to allow eyes to meet
    • front paw may be lifted
  • Dominant Gestures
    • directly stares into your eyes
    • ears, tails and hackles are up
    • stands tall
    • stiff body
    • may snarl or growl
    • protective of food and toys
    • refusal to move out of the way
    • won't allow petting or fondling
    • won't allow hindquarters to be touched
    • bolts out the door as soon as it's opened
    • urinating on your belongings

For an excellent visual representation of the above and more see Bash Dibra's Paws Across America's "How to interpret your dog's body language".

If the thought of a dominance challenge frightens you, or if it is absolutely impossible for you to correct your dog, then it is essential you choose an extremely submissive specimen of an extremely submissive breed if you must have a dog.  Better yet, consider choosing a cat, for cats don't live in packs and don't ever issue dominance challenges.  Hamsters and guinea pigs are also good choices.