By: Kristy Goh | Edited by: Lisa Foo

This article explores a common myth of canine behaviour, mainly the dominance myth. It will also give some ideas regarding the science behind aggression and show the common signs of fear in dogs. Read on to find out more about canine behaviour, backed by science and veterinary behaviour specialists. 

Part 1: The Dominance Myth 

The American Veterinary Behaviour Society has published a position statement disagreeing with the use of the dominance theory in behaviour modification due to recent research findings which contradict with the principles of dominance theory. The dominance myth proposes that the dog demonstrates undesirable behaviour in an effort to show dominance or to become the pack leader. This myth is perpetuated by the traditional dog training methods which are based on the idea of establishing dominance over the dog, drawing links to outdated misconceptions regarding wolf pack dynamics. 

Many owners still hold on to the false ideas due to ingrained beliefs which were reinforced through television dog training programs such as Dog Whisperer by Cesar Millan. Millan's program had gained widespread popularity and was even nominated for an Emmy Award for Outstanding Reality Program. However, the training approach that Cesar Millan uses on his show is criticised by veterinary behaviourists due to its basis on the dominance theory. 

The definition of dominance in animal behavior refers to the "relationship between individuals that is established through force, aggression and submission in order to establish priority access to all desired resources (food, the opposite sex, preferred resting spots, etc)." In wolves, the pack must often cooperate to provide enough resources for the offspring to survive and consequently only the highest ranking male and female pack members mate and have puppies. Hence, wolves technically do not display dominance, as per the agreed definition, within their packs. 

Due to the dominance myth, people associate signs of aggression shown by dogs as signs of the dog trying to display dominance, and further labelling of the dog as dangerous. This thinking also prompts owners that they have a need to display greater physical aggression towards the dog in order to "show who is boss". Veterinary behaviourists have found that most causes of owner-directed aggression are related to anxiety, rather than a show of dominance. Often, the display of such confrontational behaviour towards the dog leads to the escalation of aggression in the dog and leads to higher risks of dog bites to owners. 

Part 2: The Science behind Aggression

Aggression is a normal canine behaviour which is used during food acquisition, defense of resources, establishment of pack hierarchy and self defense when threatened. In most cases, aggressive behaviour is motivated by fear or the defence of things which are of high value to the dog. 

Typical signs of fear: 

  • Dropped or tucked tail 
  • Ears laid back 
  • Weight positioned over hind limbs with head and neck lowered 
  • Sideway glance at target 
  • Autonomic responses: urination, defecation and anal sac expression

Dogs may display submissive signs when they experience fear, such as the aversion of stares, exposure of the underbelly, urination and retreat but may be missed by observers who are not familiar with canine body language. Although dogs are social animals like humans, it is important to note that the ways in which the 2 species exchange information and communicate is different. After multiple failed attempts at using submissive signals to diffuse perceived threats, dogs may turn to more offensive strategies and display body language signs such as staring directly at the target, lunging at or chasing after the target. Behavioural problems which are not solved may lead to pets being given away or put to sleep. Hence, it is important for humans to develop a better understanding of their dog's behaviour and look out for body language cues. 

 This free site is ad-supported. Learn more
​