Canine Status Behavior: Hierarchy, Dominance, and Submission in Dogs116

Dogs are social animals that live in packs or family groups. Within these groups, there is a clear social hierarchy with a dominant dog at the top and subordinate dogs below. This hierarchy is maintained through a variety of status behaviors, which are actions that dogs use to communicate their position in the group.

Hierarchy

Hierarchy is a ranking system that determines which dogs have access to resources such as food, water, and shelter. The dominant dog is the highest-ranking dog in the group and has the most privileges. Subordinate dogs are lower-ranking dogs that have less access to resources. The hierarchy is maintained through a variety of status behaviors, such as:
Mounting: The dominant dog will often mount subordinate dogs to show dominance. This behavior is typically not sexual in nature and is simply a way for the dominant dog to assert its authority.
Pinning: The dominant dog will often pin subordinate dogs to the ground to show dominance. This behavior is typically not aggressive and is simply a way for the dominant dog to show that it is in control.
Growling: The dominant dog will often growl at subordinate dogs to show dominance. This behavior is a warning that the dominant dog is not happy and that the subordinate dog should back down.
Lip curling: The dominant dog will often curl its lip to show dominance. This behavior is a threat that the dominant dog is prepared to attack the subordinate dog.

Dominance

Dominance is the ability to control the behavior of other dogs. Dominant dogs are typically larger, stronger, and more assertive than subordinate dogs. They are also more likely to engage in status behaviors. Dominance is not necessarily a bad thing, as it can help to maintain order within the group. However, excessive dominance can lead to aggression and other problems.

Submission

Submission is the act of giving up to the dominance of another dog. Subordinate dogs will often exhibit submission behaviors when they are interacting with dominant dogs. These behaviors include:
Cowering: The subordinate dog will often cower when interacting with the dominant dog. This behavior is a sign of fear and submission.
Rolling over: The subordinate dog will often roll over on its back when interacting with the dominant dog. This behavior is a sign of submission and a way for the subordinate dog to avoid being attacked.
Licking the face: The subordinate dog will often lick the face of the dominant dog. This behavior is a sign of respect and submission.
Avoiding eye contact: The subordinate dog will often avoid eye contact with the dominant dog. This behavior is a sign of submission and a way for the subordinate dog to avoid being challenged.

Conclusion

Status behaviors are an important part of canine social behavior. They help to maintain order within the group and to prevent conflict. However, it is important to keep in mind that there is a difference between healthy and unhealthy dominance. Healthy dominance is a way for dogs to maintain order within the group, while unhealthy dominance is a form of aggression. If you are concerned about your dog's dominance, please consult with a veterinarian or animal behaviorist.

2024-11-10

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