Dominance in dog training: Why the alpha myth is harmful
If you’ve ever been told to “be the alpha” or that your dog is trying to “dominate you,” you’re not alone. The idea of dominance in dog training has been around for decades. But here’s the truth: it’s based on flawed science, and following this outdated advice can harm your relationship with your dog. Instead of creating respect, dominance methods create fear and confusion. In this article, we’ll break down where the alpha myth came from, why it’s harmful, and what science really says about how dogs learn.
Quick takeaways
- Dominance in dog training is based on outdated wolf research that has been disproven.
- Alpha rolls, leash jerks, and intimidation cause fear and damage trust.
- Dogs thrive when taught with positive reinforcement and cooperation.
Where the dominance myth came from
The dominance myth started with wolf studies in the 1940s, when researcher Rudolf Schenkel observed unrelated wolves forced to live together in captivity. In those stressful conditions, wolves fought for resources, and he labelled the winners “alphas.” This research was never about family groups, yet it was taken to mean wolves (and by extension, dogs) naturally seek an alpha leader.
Later, the term “alpha wolf” was picked up in popular dog training books and TV shows, making it sound like scientific fact. But by the 1990s, wolf expert David Mech (the very scientist who helped popularize the idea) showed that wild wolves live in family units, not dominance hierarchies. Parents guide the pack rather than intimidate or overpower their young. Read his work in Alpha Status, Dominance, and Division of Labor in Wolf Packs.
Unfortunately, the outdated alpha concept stuck around in dog training circles. And many guardians today still get told their dogs are “trying to dominate them,” even though science shows that isn’t true.
Why dominance in dog training is harmful
Dominance-based methods usually involve force: alpha rolls (pinning a dog to the ground), leash jerks, shouting, or other intimidation. Some trainers frame it as “showing the dog who’s boss.”
The consequences can be serious:
- Dogs may become anxious and fearful.
- They might shut down (suppressing behaviour, not truly learning).
- Fear can spill into aggression, making behaviours worse.
These methods don’t teach the dog what to do. They only punish what you don’t like, often leaving dogs confused and less willing to try. Over time, this breaks down trust between guardian and dog.
You can read more about the damage this creates in our article Dog training and agency: why choice matters.
What science says about dominance in dog training
Modern research makes one thing clear: dogs aren’t trying to dominate humans. They’re responding to their environment, past experiences, and reinforcement history.
Dogs learn through operant conditioning — behaviours followed by rewards are repeated. They also learn socially, by observing us and forming associations. Add in emotions like fear, joy, and frustration, and it becomes obvious that dominance theory doesn’t explain behaviour. A dog who growls isn’t trying to be your boss, they may be afraid. A dog who pulls on leash isn’t seeking power, they’re excited. A dog who refuses a cue might be confused or stressed, not plotting a takeover.
The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) has a strong position statement against dominance-based training. They emphasize that:
- Aggressive methods can cause fear and defensive aggression.
- Dominance theory misinterprets normal dog behaviour.
- Training should focus on teaching what to do, not punishing what not to do.
- Positive reinforcement is more effective, safer, and builds trust.
Positive alternatives to the alpha myth
Instead of focusing on control, effective training builds trust. Positive reinforcement means rewarding behaviours you want to see more of, whether that’s sitting calmly, walking on a loose leash, or relaxing on a mat.
Some humane methods include:
- Marker training: using a click or a word like “yes” to mark the exact moment a dog does the right thing.
- Choice and agency: letting your dog opt into training, games, or handling.
- Cooperative care: teaching dogs to participate in grooming or vet care with consent-based cues.
These methods create reliable behaviours and strengthen the bond between you and your dog. You can read more in Training with heart and science: What we believe at Belle & Bark.
How to spot outdated advice
Because dominance in dog training has been popularized for decades, it still pops up in advice columns, TV shows, and old-school trainers. Here are signs you’re hearing outdated guidance:
- The trainer talks about being the “pack leader” or “alpha.”
- They say your dog is “testing you” or “trying to be boss.”
- They recommend alpha rolls, leash jerks, or physical intimidation.
- They discourage treats, calling them “bribery.”
By contrast, a modern trainer will talk about how dogs learn, how to set them up for success, and how to use rewards to build cooperation. They’ll encourage clear communication, realistic expectations, and strategies for reducing stress.
For more detail on what to look for, read our article What makes a great dog trainer.
Key takeaways
- The alpha myth comes from flawed wolf studies, not real science.
- Dominance in dog training causes fear, stress, and aggression.
- Dogs learn best with rewards, guidance, and safe environments.
- Outdated methods damage trust and the human-dog relationship.
- Science-based training builds skills through cooperation, not control.
Training rooted in respect
You don’t need to dominate your dog to earn respect, you need to guide them. Respect in training comes from clear communication, patience, and consistency. When dogs understand what’s expected and feel safe exploring new skills, they learn with confidence.
Science-based training gives you tools to shape behaviour without intimidation. By rewarding cooperation, you strengthen your dog’s trust in you and build a partnership that lasts through everyday life.
If you’re ready to move beyond dominance in dog training and start building that partnership, book a private training session with Belle & Bark.
FAQ
What is the alpha dog theory?
The alpha dog theory is a debunked concept suggesting that dogs try to dominate their families, and that humans must establish themselves as the “alpha” to train effectively. This idea came from flawed studies of captive wolves, which don’t reflect the cooperative, family-based structure of wild wolf packs or domestic dog behaviour. Modern dog training emphasizes positive reinforcement and understanding the dog’s perspective, not dominance or force.
Is dominance in dog training effective?
No. Dominance-based training is outdated and potentially harmful. Instead of building trust and respect, it relies on force, intimidation, or confrontation, which can increase stress, anxiety, and aggression in a dog. While some behaviours may be suppressed in the short term, the underlying problem remains, and the relationship between guardian and dog is often damaged.
What should I do instead of alpha rolls?
Alpha rolls (physically forcing a dog onto their back) are not only unnecessary but dangerous. A safer, more effective approach is positive reinforcement. Reward your dog for behaviours you want, like sitting politely or greeting calmly. Redirect unwanted behaviour by teaching alternatives, such as going to a mat when visitors arrive instead of jumping. Clear, consistent routines and calm guidance build a cooperative relationship without fear.
Tabitha Turton
Tabitha is the founder and trainer at Belle & Bark. With a deep passion for canine behaviour and humane training, she’s committed to making life better for both ends of the leash. Her writing blends science-backed insight with real-life experience to help dog guardians feel more confident, compassionate, and informed.
