Examples of dominant behavior
- Initiating direct eye contact
- Standing directly over the dog
- Walking towards the dog while looking at him
Do not punish your submitted dog, and avoid making the situation worse by striking him. Maybe the dog is afraid of humans. Crouch down, and gently pet your dog. You must absolutely not look at him directly in the eyes, or face him squarely. Do not pet his head, as this is a gesture of dominance. The dog needs to be reassured by making him understand that it is not necessary for him to go into submission mode every time you enter the house. In order to make that perfectly clear, leave the house and return often. When you enter:
- Say “HI!”, but wait fifteen minutes before you touch your dog. Assume a detached attitude.
- When you are ready to greet the dog, lie down on the floor (instead of remaining standing). while you bend over towards him. This is a less dominant position, and in so doing, you minimize the possibility that the dog will demonstrate signs of submission
- Approach him from the side. Instead of petting the dog on the head, ask him to "Sir, and "GIVE THE PAW.
- As soon as the dog starts urinating, say "O.K., we're going outside" right away, using a happy tone. You can also distract the dog from his submissive behavior by luring him with a toy, and playing with him. It is important that the dog understand that you have recognized and acknowledged his signs of submission.
- When guests arrive at the house, tell them not to look at your dog in the eyes when he goes towards them to sniff them. When everyone is seated and engaged in conversation, suggest that they gently present their hand and talk to the dog, without looking at him, however. After the dog has gotten accustomed to the people and has calmed down, (usually after fifteen minutes) and especially if he has not shown any signs of submission whatsoever, ask your guests to give him a small treat.
- You can then distract him with a toy, or give him a command ("NAME + Sir, for example). Be careful not to get angry, because you will send a message to the dog to the effect that he is not sufficiently submitted, and he will make sure that it is very clear that you are the boss by urinating. Such a dog has a huge lack of self-confidence. He needs to be exposed to your positive attitude, because he will turn to you often for your approval.


