13/09/2026
The Myth of the ‘Pack’
Understanding modern thinking about dogs and behaviour...
The idea that dogs are constantly trying to become the ‘alpha’ or take over the household is outdated. Terms such as 'alpha', 'dominance', 'hierarchy' and 'pack-leader' are often used to explain dog behaviour, but they do not provide an accurate understanding of how dogs learn or interact with people.
The concept of the ‘alpha wolf’ became popular following studies carried out in the 1930s and 1940s. These studies observed unrelated wolves housed together in captivity, where competition and conflict were common. This was very different from the natural social structure of wild wolves, which generally live in family groups made-up of parents and their offspring.
Dr David Mech, whose early work helped popularise the term ‘alpha’, later explained that the captive studies did not accurately represent natural wolf behaviour. He has since argued that the 'family group' is a more appropriate way to understand wolf social- relationships.
Unfortunately, these ideas were then applied to domestic dogs, leading to training-methods based on confrontation, punishment and attempts to ‘show the dog who is boss’. Such approaches can cause fear, stress and confusion, and may damage the relationship between a dog and its family.
Dogs are not plotting to take control of the household. They depend on us for safety, food, shelter, care and guidance. When a dog behaves in a way we find challenging, it is more helpful to consider factors such as: learning history, emotions, fear, stress, pain, unmet needs and the environment.
Modern, ethical-training focuses on teaching desirable behaviours, managing situations carefully, and using reward-based methods. If you are experiencing difficulties with your dog, seek help from a suitably qualified, reward-based trainer or behaviourist who use up-to-date, welfare-focused practices.
