Should We Alpha Roll Our Dogs?

In a word – NO!  For some of us out there who may be confused, alpha rolling is rolling a dog over on it’s back and holding it down to show dominance, usually after the dog has done something wrong.  It seems that Alpha rolling has become more popular recently, maybe partially due to a popular television personality that frequently endorses this.

To me, alpha rolling is an unnecessary technique that is mainly used by that macho type that thinks forced submission actually leads to something desirable.  Not only can it damage the bond between you and your dog, but it’s a great way to get bit.  So why does that guy on tv do it?

Remember, the guy on tv has a ton of knowledge that you don’t, he also works with extreme cases and there is a ton of editing in those shows.  Seeing something on tv does not make you a dog trainer.  I will stop myself short of saying there is never a time and place for an alpha roll, but it’s definitely not something that the average pet owner should be doing.

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