Don’t Be Your Dog’s “Alpha” (and What to Do Instead) with Marc Bekoff, Ph.D.

Have you ever heard someone say that you should be your dog’s “alpha”?   I’ve heard all types of odd advice over the years, like don’t let your dog walk through the doorway before you or never feed your dog before you eat. And I’ve always had lots of questions.   Do dogs have alphas?  or is that a wolf thing? You often hear the term “alpha male,” but in nature aren’t alpha females just as common?  What is the role of the alpha in a pack?  Are dogs even looking for humans to be their alpha? Fortunately we have renowned ethologist Dr. Marc Bekoff to answer all these questions and more for us. Though a self-proclaimed “terrible student,” Dr. Bekoff is a prolific writer, and his remarkable career often has him collaborating with the likes of Jane Goodall. As a pet parent companion animal guardian, Dr. Bekoff makes me think about the type of relationship I want to have with my dogs and the type of human I want to be.  (And also about some of the past blunders I’ve inadvertently made.) From sniffing & playtime to navigating dog parks, Dr. Bekoff gives us practical ways to truly honor our dogs’ “dogness.” Find links & show notes at: https://believeindogpodcast.com/episodes-1/episode103 Teef: The easiest way to improve your dog’s dental health is with a spoonful of Teef powder in their water. Save 20% on your Teef orders when you use the code: ADM. Join the Facebook Group: Believe in Dog Pet Parent Support Group Leave a review: Leave a rating & review on Apple Podcasts or your podcast player. Screenshot your review. Email the screenshot to me at erin@believeindogpodcast.com and I’ll be sending you a free gift.