Dogs, like their wolf ancestors, are pack animals. Even after thousands of years of domestication, dogs are still wired to have the same behavioral structure which makes them social animals and become members of a pack.
In this article, you will know why dogs are pack animals, why they think they are in a pack, and why they like existing with other dogs in a pack. Find out more about alpha dogs, dominating dog breeds, and human pack leaders. You will also know about the relationship between dogs and wolves and see if these two can be part of a single pack.
Why are Dogs Pack Animals?
Dogs are mainly pack animals because they are descendants of wolves. When they see other dogs, immediately, they want to join that pack. And it is quite easy for other dogs to join groups because of their social nature. You may have seen packs of dogs getting along together just fine.
This is the reason why dogs also easily bond with their human owners. Their instincts command them to pursue and become part of a pack. And they stay with their pack for survival, protection, and affection.
Do Dogs Think They are in a Pack?
To answer this, we need to know what a pack truly is. A pack is defined as a group of animals that depend on each other to survive. It is composed of a breeding couple, which makes up the alpha pair. The male and female build a family with their litter until these offspring come of age. By then, the young ones find a mate and create a pack of their own.
With the domesticated dogs that humans have today, we seldom, if not never, see a pack of dogs building their families, hunting for food, and raising their offspring. But this does not mean that they do not see themselves in a pack.
If a dog belongs to a human family, it sees them as a major factor in their survival. Its pack-like instincts may tell it to get comfortable with the family. This includes showing affection and having a connection with them. The dog also feels the protection and care from its pet owner, the same response that they have when it is in a pack.
Do Dogs Like Living in Packs?
Dogs are social animals and they enjoy being with dogs or humans for company. They love playing with them and being with them whether confined in a home or the outdoors. For the sake of the pack, dogs protect their relationships. And they will stand by their pack for as long as they can.
Dogs also may partner with a couple of other dogs when they hunt for food. The feral population determines that they look for food together with a pack. As dogs scavenge for food, these will also provide enough nourishment for the whole group. Even domesticated dogs are accustomed to these kinds of organized behaviors.
Dogs and humans also coexisted for several years because of mutual dependence on each other. Both like living in packs. Humans depend on dogs for hunting and dogs depend on humans for food. The same is still true today. Though pet owners no longer hunt, they still love to receive affection from dogs. And the dogs also reciprocate the liking to their human partners because of the developed relationship built between them.
What is the Alpha Dog Breed?
In the dog world, the term alpha dog breed is used for those types of breeds that would most often assert their dominance over a pack. These dogs command the members and even their pet owners so that they can have it their way.
Pet owners need to be careful with these types of dog breeds and do not allow these dogs to be the alpha in the house. These breeds include the American Pit Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, German Shepherd, Akita, Bull Mastiff, Doberman Pincher, and Husky.
These breeds need to know instantly that you are the alpha. Once they see that you are the one leading the pack, they will acknowledge your dominance and be submissive to you. You will have a better and more organized house if they see you as the alpha of the pack.
What are the Characteristics of an Alpha Dog?
An alpha dog displays its dominance over other dogs and commands humans with its actions, aggression, and expression. The alpha dog immediately distinguishes itself from the beta members. It will not follow orders. It will bite anything it wants. It is very protective of its food. Human owners have difficulty walking the dog because the alpha wants to be in charge.
How Do Dogs Decide Who is Alpha?
The alpha dog is determined through sheer intimidation and dominance toward other dogs. It demands their submission whether willingly or through force. If there are dogs that rival the current alpha dog, expect posturing at the start of the encounter. They will not turn their backs during the confrontation. They will growl at each other and seek elevation to assert dominance.
Dog fights may also occur but most hierarchy determinations do not lead to this last resort. If a dog would like to retain its alpha status or if a rival dog would want to be the top dog, it would not be of good use to the group if the other dogs are dead or bleeding.
Does My Dog See Me as Pack Leader?
It will depend on your behavior toward them. Just like in any other animal, these dogs sense fear and submission. At the same time, they also sense dominance. It is up to your demeanor toward them if you want to be seen as the pack leader or not.
The pack leader provides food and makes sure that the dog is well-protected. Not only that, but they also show their dominance through proper posture whenever they walk together. You also need to have the right energy whenever you are with your dog. The calm and positive energy of the pet owner shows that he is the leader. A nervous appearance will definitely do the opposite.
You also have to set the rules at the onset. The dog needs to know its limitations. And you have to be consistent throughout. Lastly, you have to let your instincts work. Show your leadership every time the dog goes out of line.
You will know that you are the pack leader when the dog gives his attention, loyalty, and love back to you.
Will Wolves Accept Dogs in Their Pack?
Generally, dogs cannot join wolf packs. Even if their DNA proves them otherwise, their behaviors are too different to actually see one another eye to eye.
Wolves are very territorial. They will probably attack a dog rather than allow it to be part of the pack. Wolves are a tightly-knit group that would not allow lone dogs to their family.
Can Wolves Breed with Dogs?
Yes, they can. They are called wolfdogs. They are a mixed breed with combined behavioral patterns of both the dog and the wolf. They can also create a pack of their own.
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Mike is the Founder of Familylifeshare. Mike is well-knowledged in marriage, parenting, dogs, blogging and committed to sharing his knowledge and expertise with his readers. Know more about Mike from here.
