How to Tell Which Dog is Dominant

Dogs are definitely obvious about being dominant or their attempts at dominance by posturing and stance. Once you know what to look for, their exchange is a learning experience. As long as everyone is cooperating and show signs of being accepting to one another, I don’t intervene.

So, in the morning I put the dog bowls down — now five. And, I observe. I leave the room briefly and return to see that Moby, the 10 lb. yorkie mix is eating out of the extra large bowl intended for Violet, the Great Dane. I stood quietly and then realized that Violet was eating out of the ashtray-size food dish that is intended for Moby!

I couldn’t help but laugh but also be aware that since Violet is the newest member of this pack, she was following orders nicely. . .or was she? What may have looked like Moby took over could very well have been perfectly fine with Violet because there could be something in his food bowl that isn’t in hers.

I had a good laugh and then respectfully directed them back to their own bowls. They didn’t care, and I’m sure were quite satisfied at knowing that kibble was the entree for both of them (and the others).

Later that evening, I walk into the living room and guess what? Moby is lying in the middle of the largest dog bed while Violet looks at him in earnest silently looking for a sign or blessing from Moby that he’d either share the bed or perhaps consider an exchange for the bed that fits Moby.

Once again, I respectfully, intervene and make them move to their appropriate places. They listen and respond to me, but it sure is entertaining to watch the dynamic as they vie for the position of dominant dog. (Don’t tell them that will ALWAYS be me!)