Think your dog is just your loyal companion? Think again.
Turns out, they might be running the show from the comfort of their bed. From stealing your spot on the couch to demanding attention on their terms, your dog might be giving you some serious “I’m in charge” vibes.
It’s time to take a step back and realize: when your dog’s calling the shots, things can get a little…
chaotic. Here are 19 subtle signs that your dog might just think they’re the one in charge—and you might just be their trusty sidekick.
Occupying Your Favorite Spot
Your comfy chair might have been taken over by the four-legged family member. It’s not just about comfort; it’s a sign of territory claiming.
Dogs often choose to nap where their humans spend a lot of time. A strategic move, it’s their way of saying, “I belong here.
” They may even give a little growl when you try to reclaim the space, signaling they’re calling the shots. Redirect them to their bed instead, establishing boundaries and showing who’s really in charge.
Barking for Attention
When your pet demands attention with incessant barking, it’s a clear sign they expect your focus whenever they desire. This behavior can be quite disruptive, especially during a quiet moment or a work call.
Training them to understand commands like “quiet” or “enough” can be beneficial. It’s essential to not reward this behavior with immediate attention.
By doing so, you reinforce the idea that patience and calmness are rewarded, not barking.
Ignoring Commands
A dog that turns a deaf ear to your instructions might feel they don’t need to follow your lead. This selective obedience is not only frustrating but can also be dangerous.
Consistency is key in reinforcing training; firm, clear commands followed by rewards when obeyed can re-establish you as the leader. Sometimes, professional training might be necessary if ignoring becomes a frequent habit.
Demanding Walks on Their Schedule
If your pup starts bringing the leash and nudging you towards the door at specific times, they might be dictating the walking schedule. This isn’t about exercise; it’s about control.
Setting a routine that suits both of you and sticking to it helps maintain order. It’s a gentle reminder that while walks are essential, they happen on your terms, not theirs.
Jumping on Guests
While it might seem like they’re just being friendly, jumping on guests can be a dominance play. This behavior is their way of establishing presence and getting to know guests on their terms.
Training them to greet politely can curb this tendency. Consistent reinforcement and teaching alternate, more appropriate ways to welcome visitors helps.
Guarding Food Aggressively
Does your dog become defensive when someone approaches their food? This guarding behavior isn’t just protective; it’s a sign they feel the need to control resources.
Teaching them to share and wait can ease this tension. Offering treats while they eat or hand-feeding can reduce their perceived threat.
Remember, patience and consistency are vital in overcoming food aggression.
Refusing to Move
Ever tried to get past a dog who has comfortably positioned themselves right in your path? This isn’t mere laziness; it’s a subtle power move.
They’re testing boundaries to see if you’ll work around them. Encourage them to move with a treat or command, reinforcing that you control the space dynamics, not them.
Consistent practice helps them learn their place within the household hierarchy.
Taking the Lead on Walks
When your dog frequently pulls ahead on walks, they’re not just eager to explore; they’re claiming leadership. The walk becomes a mission to guide you rather than a shared experience.
To counteract, stop walking the moment they start pulling. Reward them when they walk alongside you.
This teaches them the correct pace and position, reminding them of your role as the leader.
Stealing Your Belongings
Ever find your socks or shoes mysteriously relocated? Dogs often steal items to gain attention or assert dominance.
They playfully retrieve things they know are important to you, like slippers or remote controls. To curb this, offer engaging toys and praise positive behavior.
Creating a treasure hunt with toys can redirect their urge to playfully pilfer.
Controlling the Playtime
When your pet decides playtime is over, they might just walk off with the ball, ending the game on their terms. This act of control turns a fun session into a lesson in dominance.
Encourage a balanced playtime by involving commands and cues to start and end games. It’s crucial to show that playtime is a mutual activity, not dictated by them.
Pawing at You
Those adorable paws on your leg might seem cute, but this behavior can be a sign of dominance. They’re asking for attention on their timeline.
A gentle nudge might be followed by a more insistent tap if ignored. Teaching them to sit calmly before receiving attention can modify this behavior.
Remember, your attention is a reward, given when you decide.
Ignoring the Doorbell
When the doorbell rings and your dog doesn’t budge, they might be choosing their own priorities. They decide who’s worth their attention, subtly challenging your authority.
Encouraging them to recognize and respond to the doorbell with a treat or command can help. This reinforces that you’re in charge, even of their social calendar.
Begging for Food Persistently
Staring you down during meal times isn’t just about hunger; it’s an assertion of presence. Persistent begging can disrupt your meals and create unhealthy habits.
Train them to stay in their spot while you eat, using commands and positive reinforcement. This reassures them that meals are your time, without them orchestrating the food distribution.
Taking Over Bedtime
Sharing a bed can quickly turn from cozy to cramped when your dog sprawls out, leaving you clinging to the edge. This isn’t just about comfort; it’s a sign of asserting space dominance.
Encourage them to sleep in their designated area using training and treats. Establishing boundaries in sleeping arrangements ensures restful nights for both parties.
Ignoring Personal Boundaries
Dogs that consistently invade your personal space without invitation might be testing boundaries. This behavior, though seemingly affectionate, can also indicate dominance.
Teach them the importance of personal space through commands and rewards for calm behavior. This helps establish mutual respect and understanding of boundaries within the home.
Hoarding Toys
If your dog gathers toys and guards them, they might be showing possessive behavior. This isn’t just about play; it’s about ownership and control.
Encourage sharing by rotating toys and rewarding them for relinquishing items on command. This practice helps them understand that toys are communal and ensures a balanced relationship with their possessions.
Refusing to Come When Called
A dog that enjoys the freedom of not coming when called might be asserting their independence. This behavior can be concerning, especially in unsafe environments.
Reinforce recall commands with high-value rewards and practice in various settings. Consistent training ensures they understand that coming to you is non-negotiable, reinforcing their place in the family structure.
Dictating Bathroom Breaks
When your pet barks or scratches to be let out on their schedule, they might be influencing your actions. While bathroom breaks are crucial, establishing a routine where you decide the timing helps maintain order.
Encourage them to follow your cues rather than dictating the schedule. This reinforces your role as the household leader.
Interrupting Phone Calls
Ever had a conversation interrupted by a nudge or bark? Dogs seeking attention during your phone calls might be challenging your focus.
Training them to wait patiently with treats or toys during calls teaches them boundaries. This ensures you can engage in conversations without canine interjections, reinforcing their understanding of respectful interaction.