Discipline ~ Alpha Theory ~ Positive Training

Discussing how I discipline my cattle dogs, a bit on alpha theory and my thoughts on positive dog training for your heeler. #australiancattledog #alpha #dogtraining
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[@Karin-nz4el]

An aggressive angry heeler is something you don't want! I found ignoring them was the best method. They hate to be ignored. Really all they want to do is please you so by ignoring them they know they are upsetting you. You will get the sad eyes but that's part of their game. Lol

[@mohawkman-mr6bh]

This is a keystone with training most dogs they are social animals we always put them in the cage and ignored mine as a punishment

[@DoingitWrong]

I’m 100% in agreement with your philosophy. Trust, established boundaries, and consistency build the relationship. They need space to be their doggy selves and if a good relationship has been built, they will want to do the “right” thing. They want a safe and stable environment. If I give them that, they give it back. Creating fear in the dog kills trust and creates problems.

[@user-vu5dt5bz2g]

I clocked his exact second he went in the kennel it 135 mins of him throwing himself in a rage growling barking cry all in one even shit all over the kennel while he was in im telling

[@jrjones029]

I agree with you! Most dogs can be trained with love, patience, and positive reinforcement. Also your dogs are so cute!!! Now that I have a cattle dog there is so much energy and color in my life. They need a lot of exercise and play but they are amazing when their needs are met.

[@TheHeelerMama]

So true! And I will make sure to tell the babies how cute they are! 😊

[@zoeye7095]

I agree with you. I used positive reinforcement and a gentle leader face harness with my Cattle Dog, Severus. He is exceedingly well behaved and the vet even told me he is the only Cattle Dog that goes there that they are ever excited to see. Now he is still an over abundance of energy and super excitable, but that comes with a Cattle Dog. That aside with positive reinforcement he has learned how to treat the cats more gently and has also never chewed on my furniture which is all wood with cushions on it because I was consistent with provided new rawhides to keep him from thinking my furniture was a chew toy. I also ignored his attempts to get my attention with nips, now he just touches his nose to me or licks me. Now the Gentle Leader is probably the best thing I've ever purchased for him. He is so well behaved when going out and about and people just LOVE him. The Cattle Dog is such a determined dog that I think it's best if you make them want to do what you want them to do.

[@user-vu5dt5bz2g]

Don't flatter yourself with bordie collie bred into it

[@firefox71]

Definitely no hitting a cattle dog. They are not that far removed from the dingo you don't want them to turn on you. Then again, I can't think of a situation where I could bring myself to purposely hurt anything that I couldn't offer an explanation to at least. ~ oh, you pretty much said the same at the end. I knew I liked you for a reason 😄

[@TheHeelerMama]

They might be domesticated but not that domesticated lol That dingo is very much alive in them!

[@beverlyhenninger1056]

You are the reason I did not give up on my Kora. Thank you so much. 💓

[@TheHeelerMama]

❤❤❤

[@debbiewhite9711]

I had heelers and found them to be the easiest to train. I had them following hand and voice commands. Plus they worked well with my horses. By 1yr they were all working with me.

[@user-vu5dt5bz2g]

Lol 😂😂 you're cute

[@johnlennon335]

I have two. They have a high desire to please, and to take direction. They definitely take better with positive reinforcement than negative. They can become hand shy. If you punish, they will remember it well, and they will avoid you. Scolding is enough usually. When I tell my dogs "NO", or leave that alone, they usually remember and have been very obedient.

[@TheHeelerMama]

They are very good about picking up on our tones and read all our body language. I swear I can just give a look sometimes and they know what I mean lol

[@joshuajackson7596]

My puppy Pancho is about 6 .5 months now. We love him. He's really smart and overall a great dog. Really gentle as well. He just has moments where he starts bouncing off the walls lol basic growing pains but we couldn't live without him. Your videos are really helpful

[@jjsolly5039]

Thanks for making this vid, Alek. I am Horrified at some of the comments you said you got. As a dog trainer (and dolphins years ago) (and CGC Evaluator) I see zero reason to Ever hurt your dog! As you said well, Alek, we want to build bonds of trust. When I interview a new client, the 2 things I don't like to heard are CM or "I saw this on the Internet". Fear and aggression are 2 sides of the same coin. Hurting your dog produces fear, that can eventually be redirected at the handler as aggression. Cattle dogs are Very smart And Very sensitive. I teach a strong Leave It, and for misbehaving, I redirect the dog to a behavior I want. Getting too wound up? Go To Spot, or Go To Crate. These have to be taught BEFORE there is a problem, in calm moments, and done so very ofter that the pup does it without hesitating. The dog will pick up on our energy thru touch and attitude. Touching your dog when you are angry isn't dog training, it's being a bully. Walk away. Breathe. Say a prayer. Then return to your dog and ask for some "doggie push-ups" (sit-down-sit). Give a treat for that good behaviour. "Train up a child in the way they should go, and when they are old, they won't depart from it" Yes, we are "pet parents" - invest the time and calm consistancy to do it in Love and you will have a faithful friend for life. And maybe a CGC! Love, JJ and Ruthie-pup CGC THD TKP, Achiever Dog & USDAA Agility Titled🙏🙂🐺💕✝️

[@TheHeelerMama]

You should see the ones I didn't mention! I'm amazed at what I read here online. I agree with you 100% and I love puppy push ups! Sully still needs work on those. He gets too excited after the down and doesn't want to sit because in his head he did too tricks he wants the cookie. He will get there though. I think that's awesome you trained dolphins! Much love to you and Ruthie! ❤

[@tomki2148]

You havent had to train a game bred pitbull, cane corso, or presa canario with real drive, bred to fuck things up. Those dogs unfortunately can not be raised with positive only training or bullshit like ignoring the dog. All dogs require different training and approaches based on temperment , breed, as well as purpose/job they have. It would do you well yo underatand this rather than spreading your stupidity from sea to shining sea.

[@cowboygoth]

Unrelated from the videos topic, but I love how you and sully are practically making the same face at the very beginning lmao

[@michelelisa1420]

It's always the hardest ones to train that turn out to have the deepest bonds. 😢

[@mikepierson7447]

Dogs know we are not dogs. I'm with you no such thing as alpha dog theory. Great stuff as always

[@nancywaddell289]

I agree with you. You never use your hands for anything except petting.

[@kristibbs6394]

You and your videos are the reason I’m still sane thru Kalina’s 1st year. It was rough for me in the little puppy stages but it has gotten so much better. She still has to go into time out every now and then but it does help. We just love her so much and can’t imagine life without her now, even though she still tests us all the time.. ❤️

[@TheHeelerMama]

❤❤❤ I don't think the testing ever stops to a point lol But it's more intense for sure during this stage.

[@silicon212]

I never once hit my dog Jax. He would do some things that he shouldn't when he was young, but I gave him the cold shoulder some times, and other times I just told him a stern "No" and gave him "the eye". He got it immediately, and he never was troublesome. He needed to be shown the way and he picked it up right away. I used to give him 6 mile walks daily, then down to 4 miles later. Unfortunately, he is no longer with me, as he lost his battle to a fast growing, super aggressive form of cancer that hit his spleen. I never used the 'Alpha approach' with him, not once. He was walked on a leash, to protect him. He was perfectly fine off leash and walked alongside me. He was the best companion I ever had. I am about ready for another angel from heaven and I have chosen a Red Heeler to be that angel.

[@TheHeelerMama]

Jax sounds like he was one amazing boy! Rest easy Jax ❤and I'm so sorry. It's the worst when we have to say goodbye to them, but I think they still watch out for us and help send us the next one we need. ❤

[@silicon212]

@@TheHeelerMama Looking back at it now that some time has passed since the above message, as it turns out I didn't choose that Red Heeler. Jax sent him to me and now Loki and I are best buds. Heelers are awesome.

[@macdizzle1969]

Thank you for this channel. I love your videos and way you present the info you give. I have a 10 year old Cattle dog and got another Cattle dog puppy back in Feb, who is proving to be a REAL challenge! 😂

[@TheHeelerMama]

Thank you. Fingers crossed for you and the new pup! 😆😊

[@creativeexpressions443]

You gave a real presentation. Thank you

[@creativeexpressions443]

I'm getting a Blue Heeler puppy July 7 and am watching videos specific to him. This was helpful.

[@TheHeelerMama]

I'm glad it helped. Congrats on the new puppy!!

[@denniscardinal1227]

P.S. Your family or pack approach is perfect, I love your content and actually learn something new and interesting every time. Love to your family and you!

[@TheHeelerMama]

Thank you 💙

[@kellysauerhage8898]

I absolutely agree with your training methods. I think the dominance training just encourages more problems with them.

[@tinajossens-carilli9801]

I have a cattle dog rough collie mix who is definitely more cattle dog than collie she's 9 months now and a true blessing however she's definitely a handful.....Totally you've been a saviour for me since I found u thanks for all your advice....

[@TheHeelerMama]

No problem! Glad I could help! 😊

[@dianahowell4011]

Love your shirt!!!! My favorite things!!!

[@nancywaddell289]

I can't imagine not having my cattle dog. She's old, and I can tell she'll be gone before a year. Can't even think about putting her down.

[@kellysauerhage8898]

Hugs. Prayers you will not have to make that choice.

[@TheHeelerMama]

I know what you mean. I'm in the same boat with my oldest. Every day is a blessing. Pray you get many more days with her and you don't have to make that decision any time soon.

[@rachelnicholson4145]

I forgot to mention one of my blues is a deafy. He's 3, and to get his attention sometimes I have to touch his tail if his back is to me. He watches my hands and face intently. If he is doing something he's not supposed to, I wave my pointer finger back and forth. If he's really naughty I put my hands on my hips. He knows he's in big trouble. All my dogs are pretty good, they do get into fights now and again. I have an air horn for that. I will not get in the middle.of any dog fight, I either use the air horn or water, even if it's my kitchen faucet hose. Lol. My hubby ran past an air horn and a water hose to break up a fight with a couple of the fellas and he ended up with 5 stitches and a course of antibiotics. Also I misspoke about how many cattle dogs I have. I have 10 cattle dogs, one french bulldog(12yrs old) and a miniature Longhair dachshund (15 yrs old). I just got all excited and lumped everyone as a cattle dog. Lol

[@TheHeelerMama]

lol I would of lumped then all in as well. They are honorary cattle dogs after all right? I'm a bit nuts so I just jump in lol but yes the hose I have had to do once. It's probably better to stay out of things especially when your pack is that big! Thankfully I've never been injured more than a bruise at home now at work yeah I've been sliced and diced and antibiotics. (Cats win when grooming lol)

[@rachelnicholson4145]

@@TheHeelerMama I have a crazy kitty that the dogs are scared of. Lol. He goes between being cute cuddle kitty to all out crazy kitty doing mission impossible moves all over the place. 😂 The cattle dogs all scatter when he's being crazy kitty. I'm the only one who gets cuddle Kitty. With the dogs, I do positive reinforcement but I also have my angry voice, not yelling just growly sounding, that goes along with my angry face and words like "shameness". Lol. They are like 3 yr old kids most of their lives and understand quite a few words. My first blue could understand words that I spelled. Lol. Like b.e.d. g.o.o.d.y etc. But I talk to my dogs like they're humans, even the Weiner is pretty smart. Lol. The bulldog, oh she's smart but she only does things on her terms, when she's ready and if the reward is worthy enough 😂

[@TheHeelerMama]

@@rachelnicholson4145 Our conure is like your crazy kitty. The heelers don't like her and keep their distance. And I hate it when they learn to spell! My oldest new many words spelled out and my youngins are picking up on a few spelled out. Tonight my husband said "is it time for flamingos?" instead of time for dinner and Clea was not convinced that we were talking about flamingos. 😂

[@rachelnicholson4145]

@@TheHeelerMama That's funny. Mine just know the time of day and when I get my time for food body language they know. I feed everyone in their crates. Our deaf guy wanted to be the food bowl monitor, so I took that idea away from him. Lol. The pups just moved into the big dog room from their nursery, which was my living room. It's great having my furniture back. 😂 The pups are still figuring out whose crate is whose. They'll eventually get it.

[@denniscardinal1227]

A stern warning is all that you need, my 9 month will go and cower just from my tone and demeanor. I always let him off the hook immediately and give him love. People marvel at his behavior in public and I get asked how I trained him so young. Just love them, if you hit the one you love you need help.

[@subzerodude6354]

We never beat our dogs. They listen when we mean business. Of course they try us, but they always respond to our discipline voices. All they want is food AND LOVE and attention. one cattle dog is a boy and he is very reserved. My other is a girl and she is protective, rambunctious, playful. Great dogs.

[@juliehenderson1672]

They remember every moment...recall goes for all memories ; not just returning...

[@GCD8]

I rarely comment on videos I watch, but i was moved, emotionly, by this. I was 17 when i goy a 6 month old rescue red healer. He was a big challenge and i wasnt equiped. I tried the alpha stuff, it wans't called that in the 1970s, but I held him down to 'punush him' i imitated aggressive behaviours to be the alpha, and all it did was, with the benefit of loong hindsight all these years later, was to create an agressive dog that was super confused. I so apprecate your style and I now believe positive affirmation and ignoring as the maximum negative are the best. The comparisions to wolves might be relevant, but dingos and wolves are very different and I think that needs to be explored too. Thank you for your channel.

[@TheHeelerMama]

We did the same thing with my Lu. I went through so many training methods and we briefly tried the "alpha" thing as well and it just made him worse which then had to correct that. Dingoes are for sure a bit different than the wolves but researching both I think can make a huge difference on how people see these babies. Helps understand them better and how to coexist with them. Thank you for the comment (and the other) and for watching the channel.

[@juliehenderson1672]

Humans remember the "feeling" of a moment much more than the moment itself. Dogs are same.

[@ErnieHatmaker]

This is the way it works in our pack too.

[@JulieFarnum]

Completely agree with this. Trained Ranger pretty much the same way. He was extremely well behaved except for other dog aggression but I could handle that. None of the Cesar Milan fear stuff.

[@christinemow6017]

Thank you for your advice. We have a rolled magazine that is taped, not tight, just enough to make noise. It doesn't hurt. Just makes enough noise to put him off us when we are doing something we don't need our puppy on. Worked for my dog when she was a puppy. To my husband's dislike, my son's puppy gets water or soda bottles to chew on.

[@TheHeelerMama]

No problem. I've clapped my hands really loud before to get attention of them. Be careful with the bottles. My Sully had a thing for squeakers and plastic caps, ended up having a squeaker in him for 11 months before it moved and started causing problems. Had to have surgery.

[@christinemow6017]

@@TheHeelerMama good to know. I am always grabbing the caps when he chews them off. I'll watch out for the squeakers too

[@bernadettenemec2705]

ALEX, YOU ARE SIMPLY THE BEST PET PARENT...I AGREE 100% WITH YOUR TRAINING AND discipline....I love your furbabies....Lucian looked so beautiful there, I was dropping tears with you...your babies know how much LOVE AND CARE YOU GIVE THEM...AND ITS VERY EVEIDENT THAT THEY GIVE IT RIGHT BACK TO YOU. HOPE ALL IS WELL WITH THE HUMAN FAMILY AND HOPE SILVER IS STILL HANGING IN THERE. MUCH 💙💙💙💙💙 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏 coming your way always!

[@TheHeelerMama]

I miss my Lu so much. He was such a good boy....All is good with us and Silver is well even though she's has a rough few days. Hope all is well with you and your family! 💙🙏

[@bernadettenemec2705]

@@TheHeelerMama I get missing Lucian...(hope I spelled it correctly). I had several furbabies who have left a tattoo on my heart...my ALEX... a yellow lab was a wonderful boy...he was a big boy and when my son was a toddler he would literally sit on him...broke my 💔 when he went at 12 years but you NEVER FORGET THEM....😥😥😥❤️🐕❤️

[@TheHeelerMama]

@@bernadettenemec2705 They really do leave a mark on us when they leave. Loosing both our boys messed me up so bad. We use the French spelling of Lucien. But no worries on that everyone spells it with an a. 😊 12 years is a good long life. They live on through us until we meet them again. ❤️ Rest easy Alex ❤🙏🐕

[@edwardwilcox6712]

I have a pittbull/blueheeler she the best doge ever she gets her way all the time I never yell at her or hit her and she the best friend

[@RoadDogsRehab]

Indeed. Leadership, not Beatership.

[@KnottyN8v]

Agree

[@sierrasayer8787]

Would love to see a video of your dogs in public around other dogs and kids!

[@TheHeelerMama]

I have a few up of them in stores but I will be doing some soon with them near other dogs. Just waiting on this weather to cooperate for outings. Sully and Clea sometimes have issues around kids. They are fine if they keep their distance but when they run at us screaming they go into protect mode. Silver was the best with kids. I also don't have many friends left with youngins to work on socializing them.

[@morganhorsediaries3316]

We had a red Queensland Heeler that every now and then, would try to be Alpha. ie: He would growl at my husband when my husband would kiss me goodbye in the morning. So, every now and then, my husband would pin him down on his back (gently) until he stopped struggling (not screaming). My husband would let him up and all would be good for a few months and then he would need to be reminded. We never hit our dogs short of a tap on the head (literally a tap on the nose) to remind them. Raider (our second cattle dog) was picked up on the street as a puppy and was traumatized by the method they had used. He would take my wrist very gently and just hold it. I was concerned but then a friend told me that dogs when they are comfortable with each other will mouth each others neck and he couldn't put his mouth on my neck. So , I let him do that since it gave him comfort and eventually he became calm and a fantastic dog. Ghost is submissive dog and we're very careful not to do things that shake his confidence. (our Boxer rescue runs him) I love Heelers.

[@TheHeelerMama]

I know exactly what you mean. We've had to put Sully in a submission position for a couple of nail trims and when hubby tried to kiss me. Like you said gently but never made him scream. It's the same position on their side that we use at the vet office or when I was grooming. When he calms down and talk him through it he gets back up and give kisses to all lol. My crew does that mouthing to their necks all the time. Our Kai Ken Kage use to grab my husbands pocket when he came home and walk through the house with him like that. I love how much you are in tune with your babies.

[@aarongreen39]

A person who doesn't or hasn't owned one of these babies won't understand that no matter how good you explain, like, and subbed ,😅😅 These fellas are awesome

[@rickroden7666]

I have just adopted a "red heeler" from the pound, He's a large 6 mo. old pup, he's wild as a march hare, but he's very loving so far. He takes off on lead at 100 miles hr, and usually ends up on his side from not paying attention to the fact he's on a lead. Slowly he's learning to pay attention. He's hit the wall several times from just barreling into things. He eats being loved up like it's more important to him than food. So he's always by my side., I'm still working with him and will be for the next few years., He sticks to me like glue. grabs everything with his mouth, eats everything., Ha! I've had to take Kleenex out of his mouthy mouth. I've had a lot of experience with training dogs for obedience, and worked with the police department, agitating police dogs as they hate to attack women. so I'm not a green horn. Yeah he's a real challenge. I'm enjoying it, so is he.

[@daveduffy1755]

The dog requires direction and a job and a real boss to seek approval from

[@ronnettrobinson8275]

I love you! And that T-Shirt!

[@TheHeelerMama]

Thank you ❤

[@dawnmitchell11]

I do a lot of the same stuff as you jobs, exercise, routine, etc. Lol, mine will make a routine if you don't! Routines are how dogs find their "position" in the family. One thing I have found with my cattle dog is that they are big communicators and really want you to understand their communication. I'm sure that's probably true for most breeds. I think clear communication with your dog is probably the biggest factor in discipline. One thing I did do when we first brought ours home was to keep her on a leash in the house (for the first couple of days) and take her on a sniffing tour. I would have her wait while I entered each room first and then would invite her in after me. She has been very respectful in our home and still waits for me to enter rooms first.

[@TheHeelerMama]

I love that. I sometimes get tripped when they know we are going to do something fun in another room and even the stay command goes out the window lol. They really do express so much not just in their body language but you can see what they are thinking in their eyes.

[@catherinelalla-duckworth8219]

I have a Queensland Heeler who was badly abused before I got him many issues but I stuck with it with love I never hit my Heeler if I even raise my voice he acts like I hurt his feelings I disapline with love patient s and he has been best dog ever he has service papers I trained him and good citizen award Sully is to sweat even when he is being mischievous 🐾 keep with love I really don’t see anything wrong with him My Mr Rush is a testament to throw away dogs need chance to give back and they do I tell my Heelers story to anyone wants to hear he is best dog I even had and wants to please me cause I love him and he love ❤️ me please give Sully and rest of crew hug and kiss 💋 from me your channel really important to other Heeler parents Good Job Momma!!! ❤

[@TheHeelerMama]

Just now saw this. Thank you. ❤❤❤ Your story reminds me a bit of my Lu's. I still defend him and tell his story to people to this day. Much love to you and Mr Rush!

[@speedracer412]

I've always wanted a cattle dog since I was little kid I'm 29 now and just received my little girl holley (9 weeks) for my birthday few days ago pretty happy found this channel man is she a handful already and she knows it lol

[@TheHeelerMama]

We're glad your here! Welcome to being a heeler parent for life! lol Happy birthday and congrats on your raptor Holley!

[@marysewall7527]

Bandit is doing well now. He and heeler daddy are well bonded. He has an e collar for when it is absolutely necessary to get his attention. Smart fellow knows what controls it and much of the time only have to show him the controller and he is paying attention.

[@marysewall7527]

Rarely is shock mode used only vibrate

[@TheHeelerMama]

I'm so glad to hear that! ❤ We used one of those collars once on our Kai Ken that we had. Put in on the highest setting and he sat there and smiled at us! Cracked us up. It was returned the next day lol. So glad to hear he's doing better.

[@kerinobrien6642]

I didn't know this about ignoring them and have been struggling with my 5 month old heeler, Lily, when we take walks because she'll grab the leash and want to play tug. Well, because I didn't know, I would fight for the leash or give her a 'drop it' command and treat her (which she quickly figured out the more often she grabbed the leash, the more treats she got!). So one day, out of exasperation, she grabbed the leash and started her nonsense and I just said, 'whatever' and kept walking. She kept looking to me for treats or play and I just ignored her and kept walking. Well about 40 seconds of being ignored was enough for her to drop that leash and go back to the walk! Now anytime she is being poorly behaved I will just ignore her or move her to another room and while she still tries the nonsense, she usually will give in pretty quick! They are so freaking smart! (and adorable!)

[@TheHeelerMama]

I love those looks like wait, why are you not paying attention to my nonsense? lol Worse thing for me when ignoring them is trying not to laugh as the wheels are turning with them.

[@michellej7734]

TAKE THE ADVICE ON THIS CHANNEL AS GOLD!!!!! My boy is like Lucien and the only things that have worked and has been good with him is everything I have learned here and ONLY here. Alpha Theory does NOT work on ACD's they are too SMART AND SENSITIVE for that. THE SMARTER THE DOG THE MORE SENSITIVE. Those of us that do NOT discipline in that way have have a stronger life bond. Ignoring and taking myself away from my ACD'S is last thing they want. Are they stubborn and obsessed if they want something, YES but they want TOO PLEASE US.

[@bryanjones14]

Awesome video BTW ,Im a firm believer that if the dog loves you, and you earn it's trust it will naturally want to do what makes you happy and please you . I've had Irish water spaniels ,labs and boarder collie ..... As I'm typing this my new lil guy Colt (9) week old heeler just took off with my slipper so wish me luck !!!?!

[@TheHeelerMama]

lol Good luck! And thank you.

[@blueheelersunite]

Great video and advice. Charlie barks in the car A LOT and since he has a neurological disorder I am not prone to physically discipline him. My partner wants to get a bark collar but I wont allow it. Would you shock a child if it cried?? Maybe I am being too soft but he is a special dog!

[@TheHeelerMama]

I would have to agree with you especially if he has a disorder. The collar might cause him more of a freak out.

[@parkcaro]

When I first got my puppy (she's nearly 4 now) I made myself crazy reading every book, watching every vlog and how to train your dog. As I result, I thought I had to train every "bad" behavior out of her. Then, a very good friend of mine gave me some very important advice: It's ok. However she is, she's YOURS and it's ok. She is an amazing dog and I think I did quite well with her through patience, perseverance and love and now she let's me do anything to her (ears, eyes, teeth, meds etc etc.) I have her complete trust. She will absolutely not eat anything until I tell her "ok". My husband and I spoil her and treat her as our child and make no excuses about it. She is 1/4 heeler, 1/4 border collie and the rest "other" herding breeds. Is she perfect in everyone's eyes? No. Is she perfect it ours? Yes! I absolutely agree with your methods.

[@TheHeelerMama]

This!! So much this!! On all of it! I agree with that friends advice 100%! Personality and who they are play a part and if they don't get everything perfect that's okay, they are still perfect! ❤❤❤

[@parkcaro]

@@TheHeelerMama ☺

[@user-ki3ox7ox2o]

Hi! I have a 12 week old little girl heeler. She’s beautiful and stubborn and smart. Do you have any potty training tips? We go outside in the backyard and when I see her go I praise her but she doesn’t seem to care haha! I watch her like a hawk inside but she still has accidents when I turn my head for a second!

[@4literfandaniel373]

Mine is blue heeler, border collie mix. Perfect half and half. High strung sometimes, sharp as hell though. I definitely need to do a better job of making sure he doesn’t feel his crate is a punishment, what do you do to make sure they understand it’s their safe place??

[@TheHeelerMama]

You can do some trick training with them to get them more use to it. I have a vid up with some tips kzbin.info/www/bejne/inXWkpeVqt-Dd5o The tips start at 9:46 in the vid. I also make sure they have a comfy mat in there, fav toy or chew. Doing short sessions with treats like I show in this vid or even playing around the crate can help them feel more comfortable with it as their safe space.

[@meadowsmama9423]

There’s no such as Alpha when you have dogs i hate when people say that too ughhh yes all the sudden everyone a dog trainer !! Making your dog yelp or scream is abuse and only teaches them fear. People with no experience always have the most to say. (That was my rant LOL. ) When cheif was a pup and nipped we’d say “ no really stern and tap his nose (same tap i used when teaching my daughter not to hit) and give him a toy / chew instead. We use time out as well, and i take away toys just like with my daughter 🤣 Chief even knows when he did something bad Cause I’ll say “did you do that? Are you sorry / apologize.? And he’ll give a kiss and lay on his belly 🤣 We have so much respect for you ma’am ! ❤️

[@TheHeelerMama]

Thank you. ❤ It's the same here all I have to do is say "who did this?" and I know exactly who and the apologies omg they are too cute. We get the hugs and kisses and then after we have a conversation about how what they did was wrong it's back to play lol. We take toys away too and the looks on their poor faces. Freakishly smart babes.

[@riefujimoto4279]

whoever says to smack or hold down their cattle dog is WRONG how could anyone do that? my cattle dog is almost 8 we gave him positives growing up in the 70s ppl hit dogs etc and it was wrong then and it's wrong NOW - animals are vulnerable and need protection/love/security.

[@jorgerosario2278]

My 11 week old Heeler barks at me when I ignore him. He hates it! Lol

[@jaymarx8927]

If I get angry with my 11 m.o. cattle dog, she doubles down and gets even more stubborn and determined. She can sense the anger even if I'm trying to hide it and bribe her with treats to do what I want. It's been a lesson for me about patience and control very loosely instead of micromanaging. I'm pretty sure this won't be an agility dog, but I need her to respond to me when it's really important and mold her behavior more softly and persistently than forcefully.

[@jaymarx8927]

oh and to "break her spirit" by making her terrified of me is not an option. She is a rescue dog and already came to me with some trauma that we had/have to work through.

[@TheHeelerMama]

I don't know if I said it in this video but I know I've said it in others. Sometimes it's okay to just walk away because like you said they can sense our emotions extremely well and if I get frustrated or upset I take a moment and refocus as well. Sorta hard sometimes to walk away since they follow immediately lol but they know when I close the door mama needs a moment lol. I'm sure you and her will get through everything together. Rescue pups do take more especially if they have been through a lot.

[@tigertalks1567]

I have a question I'm trying to help a neighbors 6-month-old healer I have trained High Drive German Shepherds and I have never seen the likes of this dog. I have taken her from multiple walks a day then I got her hurting ball which she went crazy and heard it for 45 minutes without stopping without getting tired and then I let her play with another dog for a half hour this was all in one day. The problem is she has left alone all the time pretty much and is very independent and the most hard-headed dog I've ever seen. She will climb up on my head tried to bite me I've tried the yelping I've tried disciplining her with a loud no nothing phases her. I think she's a very very high drive even for a Healer again I've worked with German shepherds. I personally believe she would do well on a big cattle ranch but these people are going to keep her like stuffed animal out in the yard by herself. I'm trying to help her how do I get her to stop being so stubborn?

[@fpvtv2222]

I don't hit my dogs. I do correct them though. My corrections is ignore or make them do what I want them to do. I don't give up either. If they are pulling on the leash I stop walking and sometimes make a correction turn. In the dog world the alpha controls the food, toys, and snacks. You decide who eats what how much and when. The alpha doesn't abuse his or her pack. The so called domince roll is a last resort .

[@TheHeelerMama]

Well crap then I guess I'm doing alpha stuff because I do control the food etc lol. But yet their tummies do tell me when it's dinner time so may be I'm not doing it lol. We do the same with the walks. You act like a nutter the walk is paused.

[@esthermarygold-lowe4403]

I have trained horses and dogs both. U have 2 children. Raising them is definitely similar. I love your videos

[@TheHeelerMama]

Thank you!

[@janetrobertson5066]

Love your training methods! I have a 3 month old heeler golden doodle mix. He has an array of toys, but I am his favorite to bite. I have tried every suggestion (replace with a toy, yelp etc) with no luck and hoards of bites on my arms, hands, hips, legs and feet. I adore him but am so frustrated. Any advice?

[@TheHeelerMama]

Thank you....that is pretty much how I teach the bite inhibition. I did make a weird "dying seal" noise as we call it and that is what clicked in his head to stop. But it did take about a month for him to stop going really crazy with it. I sometimes stand there with my arms crossed and turn too and sometimes that can get a pup to stop. Thumb on tongue and teeth on lip method you can do as well but I know that's not for everyone and be dangerous if he's a real biter.

[@janetrobertson5066]

@@TheHeelerMama Thank you for responding! I found your video on biting and watched it today. I'm going to give your suggestions a try. Your seal noise cracked me up but it worked! Thanks again and look forward to watching more of your videos. Take care!

[@TheHeelerMama]

@@janetrobertson5066 😆I'm so glad it worked!! If I ever write a dog training book I think that will be my first suggestion. It seems to work better than the yelp for quite a few people lol

[@cassie3787]

Teaching drop it, and leave it first helped me to not have biting pups (: I didn't discourage them using their mouths, but instead taught them when I need them to stop, first. Then, I moved on to which objects are appropriate and which are not

[@bethwarren731]

I guess I've lucked out. 2 full blooded and 1 mix and never had any of the problems people talk about. I do treat them like my kids and give them an enormous about of time. They are my family.

[@greysonross7201]

A lot of people on here will probably hate me for this but what really helped me tremendously is Muzzle conditioning , camper was eating sticks and puking them up at night and also play biting people a lot . But it is helping Sososo much and he’s slowly learning that you shouldn’t eat wood and that teeth shouldn’t touch skin for any reason at all . He’s even getting to the point where he gets excited when it’s time to put it on . Peter Caine on KZbin is my favorite to watch … ceaser is a dog whisperer so he doesn’t use commands plus one of ceasers dogs bit his neighbor so he must not be that good at his job LOL

[@TheHeelerMama]

NO HATE FROM ME ON THAT ONE! I think I've even mentioned before in a previous vid you should muzzle train your pup. The bigger ones and or the ones they use at the vet. It's for their protection for multiple reasons and in case they would need it at the vet they have a positive experience with it. That's wonderful he's doing so well with it! I have watched a few of Peter's vids before and I agree with him way more than I do with Ceasar. Last few times I watched Ceasar I was like someone's dog is going to get bit doing that. Didn't know it would be one of his. Hope we are at least your second fav to watch or at least in the top 5! 😉😁

[@greysonross7201]

@@TheHeelerMama y’all definitely are tied for # 1 ! 🙂

[@TheHeelerMama]

@@greysonross7201 ❤

[@dionhmedji4521]

I have a blue healer he’s 10 weeks old, his training is way different from my Rottweiler’s they need Alpha training my Bleu doesn’t. I just use positive reinforcement for Bleu

[@TheHeelerMama]

Yeah, I think blues thrive on positive and trusting training. All they want to do is make us happy.

[@metroidmel6801]

My girl is now almost a year old, she can be a brat sometimes but her attention and devotion is just so unmatched, even with all the crazy hormones right now at her age. I’m curious, with your experience have you found your Cattledogs to be very vocal when you leave the house? Mine still struggles with barking quite a bit despite proper crate and separation training. They just really are velcro dogs.

[@TheHeelerMama]

When mine were babies and we were crate training yes a lot of vocalization. Now that they are older they are quiet when I leave the house but they all give me this look of "why am I not going with you?" They all sit and stare out the window waiting for me now. Thankfully quietly but Sully has bad anxiety still and they are all home with hubby when I leave and he tells me Sully paces and whines sometimes but it's become less and less. Have you tried putting an old shirt in with her crate to help her? Or a kong toy filled with a treat to help keep her occupied? They are VERY velcro pups and the separation thing takes time because they really don't want to be without us. I'm not sure they ever fully get there I think they fake being okay as they wait for our return lol

[@metroidmel6801]

@@TheHeelerMama yep we’ve tried everything haha Kong toys, bully sticks, music, shirts, a plush with a heartbeat, different crates etc but it’s at least nice to know it’s not just her and that she just really loves being around me. I’ll continue to try to accommodate her while I’m gone the best I can, the good news is that I’m not gone for very long usually a couple hours at a time. When she’s in her crate while we’re home she doesn’t bark when separated or anything, maybe the occasional Heeler “Marge Simpson groan” lol but that’s it, thanks for answering!

[@alejimenez6859]

My heeler will be a year old next month & I don’t have what to do when it comes to people walking by our car or when I’m interacting with others he will bark crazy😩. He does good at dog parks because he’s distracted with the other dogs that he doesn’t pay attention to the owners. Hope you can give me some advice

[@TheHeelerMama]

For the car work on teaching them quiet. Sometimes just sitting in the car people watching and correcting them with a command will do the trick. He's probably just being protective but being consistent, it will eventually stop. The barking with people you have to redirect. Walk him in a different direction away from them, get him to refocus on you, teach him to sit and stay while talking with them. Work on all the training daily and you can get him there.

[@evelynteague9368]

I have a 2 year old male red heeler he's my world so thankful and bless to have him the only problem I have is he's so protect over me andy husband he goes crazy when any person comes around or near us except for the ones he knows I don't know what to do please give me some advice what to do thank you

[@TheHeelerMama]

Is it at home or out in public? For the house I keep the leash on and have them attached to me so I can correct behavior but same pretty much goes out in public. Sully is becoming more protective and has started to lunge at people we meet so I pull him back tell him to sit and stay by my side. It's the same side I use for heel. I will talk to whoever we met while he is sitting and go between ignore him while talking but check in with him to praise him that he is doing good and explain to him that it's a "friend". He won't accept many people he fits the breed of being leery of people. Once he's calm I let him sniff the people and go from there but that's only if the people are listening to the training as well. My main goal with all my heelers is to keep them calm I don't expect them to be super social. But starting with getting him to focus on you and getting him to heel and sit and stay, some even make their dogs lay down, is where I would start. Have treats on hand. Do controlled situations like meet a friend who is willing to help at a park or even in your yard, and start small. I don't let any greeting happen until my pup is calm and I can see he's accepted the person. It's all about desensitizing them to the situation and making each time as calm and positive as possible.

[@evelynteague9368]

@@TheHeelerMama it's when we are riding in the truck or car if the person gets close to our vehicle he goes crazy thank you for getting back to me and for the advice I will try it

[@TheHeelerMama]

@@evelynteague9368 Gotcha. I will sometimes park somewhere and just people watch and correct when needed. Even sit in the back. Mine will still bark once in awhile but it has to be someone that really set them off but they listen now if I say enough.

[@nyrhockeychick4life655]

I agree 1000% with your way. Gary just knows (except the furniture thing). I get what you’re saying though & again, anyone who hits, holds down or threatens a dog or any other animal, should rocket launch into a toilet at Penn Station on drown - there, I said it

[@penyt]

Totally agree with you! Dogs are our companions. The alpha theory was outdated and debunked and I don't understand why it is still relevant in the dog training world. There are so many heelers that thrive through positive training. It takes time, patience, and consistency but that's what teaching is about. You can't expect your dog to understand concepts overnight, just like humans don't finish primary school in a month.

[@TheHeelerMama]

Yeah that irks me a lot when people expect the dog to be potty trained etc on day one or day three. It's like give it time. And are you that demanding on your kids to figure it out? lol

[@wintermute9459]

David Mech, creator of the alpha theory, debunks the theory now, and has been unable to get his publisher to stop publishing his book.

[@TheHeelerMama]

@@wintermute9459 Thanks for the info. That would annoy me if that was my book and changed my mind.

[@busywithdogs]

Yes, thank you for sharing this! I am so over Cesar, I drank the koolaid and raised a puppy solely on his methods and regretted it. This dog became so aggressive over food she was not safe around my small children with food. I gave her to my mom (which is one of the hardest things I have ever had to do) , and she "un-Cesarized" her and now she has no problems. His methods may work for him but my furbabies are better behaved using other methods. Never again. I have raised many dogs, and the two that I used with his methods turned out awful, all of my others have been great family dogs.

[@TheHeelerMama]

I have heard this from SO many people over the years. The trainers I found years ago were over it the moment he came out and the trainers I talk to on here feel the same. To this day they tell me about the Ceasar dogs. I find it fascinating now his training methods lean more towards other dog trainers and I feel like nobody remembers some of the stuff at the beginning. I'm all about if one thing didn't work try something else especially with this breed lol. Using multiple things isn't bad especially when each dog is different. Glad your mom was able to fix things with her.

[@busywithdogs]

@@TheHeelerMama I believe it. The problem I faced at the time was the trainers in my area were the “no treats, no play" variety, and then most of the articles online for dog training were of the same mindset. I did better off when I raised my first dog off of my own instincts. Like, my parents found a German Shepherd that had serious prey drive (she wanted to eat my moms Pomeranian) and I trained her to not have any prey drive to my moms dog and she became my brothers dog. I finally did find some dog trainers online that were about dogs being individuals, how to positively train your dog, and how to set them up to succeed. The dogs I have now have been trained more with their methods and my old instincts and they are so much happier. Like, I cannot express how miserable my Cesar dogs were compared to my other dogs. It breaks my heart. But, I just have to forgive myself and move on. I did the best I knew how, and I kept learning.

[@noneckjoe948]

I’ve had great results with a similar philosophy. However now I have two sister pups that are about 4 months old and are fighting terribly and I’m finding I need to come up with a different tactic. It’s tough sometimes.

[@TheHeelerMama]

Raising two at once is a challenge in itself. I swear sometimes it just take time and for them to figure out their roles with each other but yeah stopping the fights can be exhausting. Thankfully my two were not too bad with each other but we've had issues happen once in awhile. Giving time outs in separate rooms helps sometimes.

[@noneckjoe948]

@@TheHeelerMama thanks…. My wife and I are getting smarter at breaking up the fight without injury to us. Last night one lost a chunk of hide off her leg. The fights are brutal and scary… and dangerous. 6 mo old not 4.

[@TheHeelerMama]

@@noneckjoe948 oh no! Sully pulled a chunk of hair out of my eldest girl a few days back. It's probably because of his boredom of being confined after surgery but it was scary and upsetting. Hubby and I know the cues thankfully now if something is about to happen and break it up too but it's picking up on all those signals cuz they happen so quickly.

[@karin7765]

I had a Heeler x Bull terrier in my class ( Looked a lot like a Aussie..) Group ACD group members told her to be really firm with him and she indeed smacked and kicked him when he didn't listen ( way to harsh that's my opinion!). I could not imagine a reason to use the 'dominant Alpha' treatment should work on any breed or dog. I'm so glad I heard your story comfirming the way to raise him the way I should and would have done ( I have a BCx)..

[@TheHeelerMama]

I see many people in heeler groups tell others to kick them, knock them off balance etc. I couldn't imagine that being good for any dog but especially a cattle dog or even a BC. Working breeds are so smart and they remember things so well. My oldest Silver was knocked over by accident from a friend of mine and she never trusted him after that. She always gave him the stink eye like I remember you are a clutz lol. Love BCs btw I had one growing up. She was mixed with poodle but she was very much a BC.

[@karin7765]

@@TheHeelerMama Mine is a BC Poodle mix as well😊. She is the toughest dog I ever owned to train! So hard to teach her something and to learn new skills. Is this because of overexcitement or even though both breeds are the top smartest breeds it doesn't mean they al are? I don't know ( I think the latter although '' over excitement doesn't help either). To avoid negative impact through action from me, I consider to start Search and rescue with her next training season so that she learn to solve things by herself

[@TheHeelerMama]

@@karin7765 Sometimes I also think it is they are so smart they like to play dumb with us! lol I think over excitement and those burst of energy rushing through them doesn't help for sure. Work on one thing at a time until they get it. I'm sure she has fun even if she's not getting things right away because she is with you and you are giving her things to do. Some are probably more smart than others but anyone with intelligence can have their derp moments lol.

[@chevis7]

Heeler mamá one question how long did take to your girls to up the ears al pointed up?

[@jjsolly5039]

8-9 weeks for mine✝️

[@TheHeelerMama]

Gypsy perked her ears up at 6 or 7 weeks. She was the first in her litter to do so, but Clea was around 9 weeks but still had some floppiness until 12 weeks. Sully popped his up at 9 weeks. I have seen some not perk up til 4 months.

[@tumbleweed6769]

Sonja, my red heeler's ears are at a 90°angle, still waiting for them to stand up...she's 14 years old. I know when the wind is more than 10mph, thats when her ears are up.

[@victoriachapman5674]

Ya I tried that and it definitely doesn’t work with what you mentioned at first

[@TheHeelerMama]

I don't remember what I first mentioned but I always say if one thing doesn't work try something else.

[@raywatts3528]

I have the 1 every1 wants to talk about he is no joke its alot to deal with but he is my boy we train 5 to 7 days a wk he swims runs i try but omy watch your step he does not have a sence of humar heelers best dog on earth

[@rharden583]

Yeah, I prefer to have my guy to be overjoyed to come to me rather than come to me fearful. They're smart enough to figure out what's what. When he's really bad I keep pushing him away and make him time out. After a while I let him know all is good and that is usually all that is needed. Him not being by my side is the absolute worst for him.

[@catherinehukill2806]

Sully is sassy!! He's getting big! yes..I need so much help getting my healer-beagle to listen to me! Mine's as sassy as Sully!

[@TheHeelerMama]

I hope he doesn't get too much bigger. I have so many bruises lol not intentional of course. I always found beagles so hard to train. I've watched my sister and a friend have so much issues getting them where they need to be. Their strong sense of smell I think ruins training sessions lol

[@catherinehukill2806]

@@TheHeelerMama Exactly! I wish the Heeler was a bit more prevalent in her! Oh, the bruises......She banks off my belly, chest, and legs....when she's got the zoomies in the house! Love all your videos! They sure help me...both in training and camaraderie!

[@juliehenderson1672]

Slobber is love juice!!!

[@grimsnig]

All packs MUST have a leader. But the animal world is a tad bit different than us humans. Pecking order is exactly what it is

[@rachelnicholson4145]

So I live with 12 cattle dogs, I use a squirt bottle with vinegar. More or less it's just the tone of my voice that gets my point across. And my angry face😂. I have 3 pups that are 4 months old, even they know my you're in trouble voice and face. Back in the day, ppl would pop a dog under their lower jaw. Idk, I've done it in the past 20+ yrs ago, but have found my squirt bottles and my angry voice works much better. ATM I'm dealing with the pups eating my drywall and trim for the floor. 😂 They'll eventually stop and we'll fix the missing drywall and trim pieces.

[@TheHeelerMama]

Yep! The angry face and tone! They understand it for sure. I understand what you mean about the drywall and trimming. I'm waiting until Sully is 2 before I start repainting and patching just in case lol.

[@DustinLKimble]

100% should never hit a dog with intention of pain. I have a blue heeler and she KNOWS when she's done wrong and hates it. Loves the yesss word (and play), doesn't eat before I eat, when we walk I make sure she knows I can go further, faster and make her know I'm stronger through exercise. She doesn't go through transitions before me. Super basic Alpha dog behavior. The strongest is the leader, the leader goes out with a pack, first and gives direction, goes on a hunt, finds food, eats and only after the Alpha is full does he allow his pack to eat.

[@tobygrimes9633]

You can win the"Alpha Challenge" with a simple stare down. Good luck with his cuteness. Also the word you're looking for with the rooster is "feather plucker".

[@TheHeelerMama]

😆 Thank you! That's the words I was looking for! 😊

[@sereneadair4941]

My John Boy came as a stray and was abused. We will not smack our dogs and I'm glad you don't listen to that crap..John used to herd me because I was not his person. Our trainer did wonders.

[@bryanjones14]

I have a retriever training book from the 40s , it talks about shooting the dog with a sling shot ....... THANK GOD FOR TRAINING COLLARS I GUESS ,!!

[@TheHeelerMama]

Like actually shooting the dog with it? What are they trying to teach with that? lol I'll take training collars over that any day.

[@bryanjones14]

@@TheHeelerMama that was how they got their "attention" at distance ..... My dogs would just learn I was a azzhole with a slingshot

[@TheHeelerMama]

@@bryanjones14 Wow, and nobody thought of to just call the dog or clap their hands? lol Poor dogs from the 40s

[@cruiseinternationaltravelt799]

Sullivan is just like my heeler I could not do that to that is abusive yes you are right. These are cattle dogs not humans

[@SisterSanMiguel]

It’s weird bc my bf is abusive to me dog and calls it alpha and I am much more gentle with my dog. She listens to me more and shows more affection to me. We have a more positive relationship. I agree that the dog whisperer is kind of abusive and I think his training isn’t really effective. I cannot use it consistently and feel good about myself.

[@TheHeelerMama]

It's not alpha if it's abuse. It's abuse. Even though my pups follow me around they still listen to hubby because they know they can trust him and they respect him. You can get desired behavior with patience and love...Yeah I know he's done charity work etc but I have a list of things I don't agree with. Hope your bf can learn to treat your pup better.

[@rudyloya9829]

Question why is my female more protective over me that my male when we are in Public places

[@TheHeelerMama]

No idea but it's probably just her personality.

[@frankmorris4790]

I'lll go! I do a jaw pinch thing with Roany, and boy I get sored up. Very mouthy girl.

[@TheHeelerMama]

Not sure I know the jaw pinch but I have done the thumb on the tongue and lips over teeth method when teaching not to mouth. I get crap for that too but it works.

[@frankmorris4790]

@@TheHeelerMama Pretty much the same thing. just put enough pressure on the inside of the mouth to where they no longer wish to bite and move forward, they want to Open up and move away. But to the newbies, YOU WILL get toothed up a little, gotsta be a little tougher than the pup.

[@user-vu5dt5bz2g]

I have tried everything I' have trained many heelers and the one I have now is just a different puppy he is from hell I'm just at the end of my rooe

[@TheHeelerMama]

Sounds like you got a very special one. ❤ In all seriousness though I'm sorry it's been rough with this one. Sometimes you get one that just takes it all to the extreme.

[@bethwarren731]

I've never hit my girl. Sometimes I have to use a very stern voice. She's a doll. Very well behaved. All done with 💕

[@mtnwalkingdogwoman]

I like your video. what do you say to a stranger when you are walking in a park and they want to pet your puppy in training and you dont want them to be pet by stranger ?, please help something not rude but explanatory to the stranger thank you, I like your attitude.

[@jjsolly5039]

"Not now, she's in training, but Thanks for asking!🙂"

[@TheHeelerMama]

I agree with JJ. Just say she's in training and thank you. If they keep approaching start walking away and keep telling them no.

[@mtnwalkingdogwoman]

@@TheHeelerMama Thank you ,sounds good

[@mtnwalkingdogwoman]

@@jjsolly5039 Sounds good!

[@puppetgirl111]

It could make them aggressive if you hit them

[@laurietaggart9469]

My heeler will play slappy paws. I grab her and hold her and we talk about her stopping it.

[@TheHeelerMama]

I love those conversations. They always give the look of "but why?" lol

[@catherinelalla-duckworth8219]

No no not Sully he to sweet he has personality 🐾🐾❤️❤️

[@sharryburnett9939]

I agree to not do what these people are telling you to do they are wrong and that is animal abuse...yes just ignore and stop teach them no or stop

[@ithinkweregoingtoneedabigg8525]

Hi, I just adopted a heeler puppy from a local shelter. He was listed as 4 months. I can’t walk without him biting at me or biting my clothes. How can I correct this?

[@TheHeelerMama]

I have a few vids up about the biting but you have to redirect it. If they start biting stop walking, tell them to leave it or put them in sit position and tell them no. Carry a toy with you so after you correct them to not nip you redirect it to a toy and say yes. Sully was mouthy for a month while we were working on his bite but if you stop and even ignore they will get the idea.

[@michelelisa1420]

Ceaser is not a dog trainer, a real trainer doesn't cause fear but gains respect.

[@TheHeelerMama]

First time I heard him say the dog needs to not sniff and stay permanently by your side I was like nope. I know now a days he says more things that follow with other dog trainers but there are still many things he does I don't agree with.

[@jaeljade3609]

It never works to smack a kid or dog. It's ignorance and just not knowing there's another way. I just let my dog run the home 🤣

[@TheHeelerMama]

🤣

[@jp3mcpherson]

Saying “pack leader” is same concept, diff terminology as “alpha”.

[@TheHeelerMama]

I would say they are different and the same depending on which theory or method of training you are doing. Leader or parent is providing guidance, protection, etc where alpha is more based in dominating and from what I've seen on the extreme end of that is also no trust just fear of the "alpha". I can see years ago the terms being used the same but after all the research and certain training methods that have come out, I prefer to keep them separate especially when everything points to "alpha" theory or dominance training being incorrect and some of it just down right abusive.

[@leejennifercorlewayres9193]

What's interesting is that dogs do worse to each other. It's a brutal world. 🥵

[@TheHeelerMama]

Yeah they can really mess each other up.