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 | I personally don't like the whole paradigm of alpha and weak vs. strong.
I think it sets up new owners to be in a combative position with their dogs/puppies.
I think it is more about "language" barriers and cultural dichotomies, between dogs and humans.
If the OP would read Jean Donaldson's The Culture Clash and Pat Miller's The Power of Positive Dog Training, that would be a good start to a great relationship with the new pup.
There is a place for discipline, but leadership does not have to equal tyranny, in order for a dog to be accepting of you as "alpha."
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It takes more than a baby and a box to make a normal monkey.—Harry F. Harlow |