Your gundog isn’t trying to dominate you
Debunking the myth – Your gundog isn’t trying to dominate you
There’s a pervasive myth in the gundog-owning world that allowing your gundog certain freedoms, like lying on the sofa, sleeping on the bed, or walking through a door first, will lead to them becoming “dominant” or thinking they are “in charge.”
Let’s set the record straight, your gundog is not plotting to take over your home or become a ruler of the universe. They don’t have a hierarchy-based strategy for world domination; what they have is behaviour rooted in communication, training, and relationships.
Here’s why you don’t need to worry and how to set boundaries that make sense for you and your gundog.
Where the myth comes from
The idea of dogs needing constant “dominance” correction stems from outdated theories which have now officially been debunked by science (and have been for many years now), such as the dominance theory popularised in the mid-20th century. This theory was based on flawed observations of captive wolves, who displayed unnatural behaviours due to their stressful environment.
Modern research now shows that dogs thrive on trust and connection rather than fear or forced submission.
Why it’s OK to let your gundog on the bed or sofa
Sharing spaces with your gundog doesn’t make them think they’re in charge, it’s a bonding experience! If your gundog is happy to get off when asked, then there’s no harm done.
Here’s what you should know:
Mutual Respect Matters: The key is that your gundog listens when you ask them to move. If they refuse, it’s not a sign of dominance but a sign that training might need a refresher.
Space Guarding: Some gundogs may guard their space due to insecurity, not dominance. This behaviour can be addressed with consistent, positive training (if you suspect you have a guarding behaviour contact a positive and reward based professional).
Teenage Phases: Adolescent gundogs often appear to “forget” all of their training as their brains develop and its often just a sign you need to go ‘back to basics’, with the right attitude and training you can come out the other side of the ‘teens’. If your gundog starts to test boundaries, it’s likely simply part of growing up, not a power grab.
Walking through the door first isn’t a power play
Another common piece of outdated advice is to always walk through doors before your dog to reaffirm your dominance. While teaching your gundog to wait while you go through doorways can be useful for safety reasons (e.g. preventing them from bolting out the front door or rushing into danger), it’s not about hierarchy.
Safety First: Teach your gundog to wait at doors or gates so you can ensure the environment is safe before they proceed.
Practicality Over Power: It’s a good habit to go through doors first in some situations, but it’s not necessary every time. Flexible boundaries are fine if your gundog listens when needed.
When boundaries are important
There are situations where setting boundaries is crucial, but they have nothing to do with dominance:
1. Gundogs that guard resources: If your gundog is guarding spaces like the bed or sofa, it’s likely a sign of insecurity or stress. Training and clear communication can help and in these cases, it is always advisable to contact a professional (reward-based and positive trainer).
2. Reinforcing cues: If your gundog ignores you when you ask them to get off the sofa or bed, it’s worth revisiting basic training to ensure cues are understood and then followed consistently.
3. Preventing safety issues: Teaching your gundog to wait at doors or gates is helpful for their safety and your peace of mind.
Focus on connection, not control
Instead of worrying about dominance, focus on building a strong, trust-based relationship with your gundog. Positive reinforcement, clear communication, and consistent training are all you need to ensure they respect your boundaries.
Your gundog doesn’t need to feel “lesser” to respect you; they just need to feel safe, supported, and understood. When you train from a place of connection, your gundog will naturally respond to your guidance without any fear or force.
In summary
Letting your gundog sleep on the bed or get on the sofa, or allowing them to walk through the door first, won’t lead to them attempting to take over your home. As long as your gundog listens when it matters and respects boundaries, you can enjoy these small freedoms without guilt.
So, the next time someone tells you that your gundog is “dominating” you because they’re snuggled up on the sofa, you can smile, knowing you’ve created a relationship built on trust and not outdated myths.
Content Disclaimer
The information contained above is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this article is not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this article. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this article. Nina Fotara T/as Confident Canine disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this article.
