29/12/2023
The 'pack leader' approach, also often referred to as dominance theory, stems from early studies on captive wolves which suggested that wolves in a pack constantly compete for dominance, with one alpha wolf coming out on top. The theory was then applied to domestic dogs, with the idea being that dogs view their human family as their pack and behave badly because they're trying to assert dominance over their human 'pack members'.
This concept has been widely popularised through various forms of media, including TV shows. However, the dominance or 'pack leader' approach to dog behaviour and training is not supported by current scientific research, and here's why:
Flawed Initial Study:
The initial study that gave rise to the dominance theory was conducted on a group of unrelated, captive wolves. Later studies on wolves in their natural habitat found that wolf packs don't operate on a dominance hierarchy, but are instead structured more like a human family, with parent wolves acting as leaders of their offspring. The original model, therefore, isn't applicable even to wolves, let alone to dogs.
Dogs Are Not Wolves:
Even if wolves did operate on a dominance hierarchy, applying these findings to dogs would be misguided. Dogs have been domesticated for thousands of years, and while they are related to wolves, they are a separate species with different behaviours and social structures. The way dogs interact with humans is also fundamentally different from how wolves interact with each other.
Misinterpretation of Behaviours:
Many behaviours that are often attributed to 'dominance' or a desire to be a 'pack leader' are usually normal dog behaviours or responses to fear, anxiety, or confusion. For example, a dog that jumps up to greet people might be doing so out of excitement or because they've learned that jumping up gets attention, not because they're trying to assert dominance.
Ineffective and Potentially Harmful:
The 'pack leader' approach often advocates for the use of punishment or aversive techniques to 'show the dog who's boss'. Not only can these methods cause fear and anxiety, but they can also damage the relationship between the dog and their guardian. Positive reinforcement training methods are more effective and build a relationship based on trust and mutual respect, rather than fear.
Contradicts Modern Canine Science:
The overwhelming consensus among modern canine behavioural scientists and veterinarians is that the dominance theory is outdated and incorrect. Dogs, like all animals, are complex beings whose behaviours can't be explained by a simple desire for dominance. They have a wide range of motivations and emotions, and their behaviour is influenced by a variety of genetic, environmental, and situational factors.
In conclusion, the 'pack leader' approach is not a valid or ethical method for understanding or changing dog behaviour. Instead, positive reinforcement and force-free methods should be used to teach dogs desired behaviours, with an emphasis on understanding and meeting the dog's individual needs.
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