10 Signs That Show Your Dog Believes He’s the Alpha

Dogs are pack animals, and every pack has a leader. In a household setting, you should be the alpha, but sometimes a dog will assume leadership if they don’t see strong leadership from their owner. When a dog believes they are in charge, it can lead to behavioral problems, disobedience, and even aggression.

If you’ve noticed your dog ignoring commands, acting territorial, or displaying dominant behaviors, they might believe they’re the one in control. Here are 10 signs that show your dog thinks he’s the alpha—and what you can do to correct it.

1. They Ignore Your Commands

A well-trained dog listens and responds to commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” But if your dog consistently ignores you, refuses to obey, or only follows commands when they feel like it, they might believe they don’t have to listen to you—a clear sign they see themselves as the leader.

What to do: Be consistent with training. Use firm, clear commands and reward obedience to reinforce your leadership.

2. They Walk in Front of You

In a pack, the alpha always leads. If your dog is constantly pulling on the leash, walking ahead, or refusing to follow your lead, they may see themselves as the one in charge. Proper leash training is crucial to establish authority and show them that you set the direction.

What to do: Train your dog to walk beside or slightly behind you, reinforcing that you control the walk.

3. They Demand Attention on Their Terms

Does your dog nudge you, paw at you, or bark until you pet them? If your dog is constantly demanding attention whenever they feel like it—rather than waiting for your invitation—it’s a sign they believe they control interactions.

What to do: Only give attention and affection when you decide—not when your dog demands it.

4. They Refuse to Move From Your Spot

If your dog takes over your bed, chair, or couch and refuses to move when asked, it’s a sign of dominance. In the wild, alphas control the best sleeping spots, and if your dog thinks they’re the leader, they may try to claim territory in the home.

What to do: Teach a “move” or “off” command and ensure your dog understands that you control the space.

5. They Push Past You Through Doors

An alpha dog always goes first—whether it’s through a doorway, up the stairs, or out the front gate. If your dog rushes ahead of you instead of waiting, they may be claiming leadership.

What to do: Make your dog sit and wait before walking through doors, ensuring you always go first.

6. They Guard Food, Toys, or Spaces

Does your dog growl, snap, or stiffen when you approach their food, toys, or resting area? Guarding behavior is a strong assertion of dominance, as the alpha controls resources in the pack.

What to do: Implement “trade” exercises, where you exchange a toy or treat for something better, reinforcing that you control resources.

7. They Jump on You or Others

Jumping on people may seem like excitement, but it can also be a sign of dominance. Alphas often assert themselves physically, and a dog that jumps without permission may be trying to control interactions.

What to do: Teach a “sit for greeting” command and only allow petting when your dog remains calm.

8. They Don’t Respect Personal Space

A dog that leans on you, blocks your path, or pushes past you may be trying to control the situation. While affection is normal, a dog that constantly crowds you or other people may be asserting dominance.

What to do: Use boundaries and commands to teach respect for personal space.

9. They Show Aggressive or Defiant Behavior

Growling, snapping, or challenging your authority—especially when told “no”—is a clear sign that your dog believes they are in charge.

What to do: Stay calm but firm, never back down from enforcing rules, and consider professional training if aggression becomes a serious issue.

10. They Try to Control Playtime

If your dog always initiates play, refuses to stop when told, or decides when play should end, they may be asserting control over interactions.

What to do: You should start and end playtime, ensuring that your dog listens when play is over.

How to Establish Yourself as the Alpha

If your dog is displaying alpha behavior, here are ways to regain leadership:

• Stay calm and confident – Dogs follow leaders who are consistent, firm, and composed.
• Be in charge of resources – Control food, toys, and attention, making your dog work for rewards.
• Lead in daily activities – Walk through doors first, set the pace on walks, and decide when play or attention happens.
• Train with clear commands – Reinforce obedience and consistency so your dog understands who’s in charge.
• Ignore pushy behavior – Don’t reward demanding barking or nudging with attention.

Take Back Control

If your dog believes they are the leader, it’s important to correct this behavior early to prevent future issues. A well-trained, well-balanced dog respects their owner’s authority, making for a happier and more peaceful relationship. By setting clear rules, remaining consistent, and reinforcing positive behaviors, you can establish yourself as the true alpha in your dog’s world!