Dogs are natural pack animals; they thrive when they know where they fit in the family structure. When they sense a leadership vacuum, they’ll happily promote themselves to fill the role.

However, your pup showing dominant behavior is less “cute and cuddly” and more “I’m the captain now.” It needs addressing—ASAP!

Below are 10 signs your dog thinks it is the boss and how to kindly remind them who the true pack leader is (and that’s you!).

Contents

1. Ignores Commands

boxer-dog-droopy-face — Image by Alan Smith on Pixabay

You say “sit” and your dog refuses to obey or pretends not to hear. Rude, I know.

Ignoring basic commands is an obvious sign your dog sees itself as above the rules. Pet owners should reestablish that they are the ones running the show!

The fix? Consistent obedience training. Start with short training sessions and use positive reinforcement—reward with treats or praise when your dog follows through.

2. Guards Resources

small dog refusing food — Source: Canva by Photoboyko from Getty Images

Does your dog growl or snap when you approach their food bowl, toys, or favorite spot? Guarding resources is a common sign of dominance aggression.

So, how do you reestablish yourself as the provider? Show them that good things come from your presence.

Practice trading up—offer a treat or toy of higher value in exchange for the item they’re guarding. This reassures them that giving up a resource isn’t a loss.

3. Demands Attention

dog with head on lap — Source: Canva by Fenne from Getty Images Signature

Some dogs take it to the level of demanding attention like a toddler in a candy store. Dogs that constantly nudge you for pets, bark for play, or paw at you whenever they want exhibit bossy behavior.

Physical affection is cute, but there’s a fine line between seeking love and demanding it. So, how do you remind your four-legged dictator who’s in charge?

Ignore them—no eye contact, no touching, no reaction. A pushy dog that gets what they want learns to repeat the behavior.

Set boundaries by initiating contact on your terms. Call them over, and then you can shower them with affection. This teaches your pup that love and attention come as a reward for good manners.

4. Nonstop Barking

Dog barking beside his owner — Source: Canva by Capuski from Getty Images Signature

Barking is the primary way dogs communicate, but it’s a problem when it becomes incessant. A common mistake dog owners make is giving in to the barking, which reinforces this unwanted behavior.

Ignore their drama and only give attention when they’re calm. You can start by letting them bark once or twice, then firmly say “Quiet.”

The moment they stop, reward their silence with a treat and praise. And don’t yell—it just sounds like barking back to them, which they think is encouragement!

5. Invades Your Personal Space

Woman in a graden tightly hugging her dog — Source: Canva by Helena Lopes from Pexels

Does your dog treat your favorite seat like it’s their divine right to occupy? Do they constantly block doorways and claim the best spots in the house? That’s yet another sign of dominant dog behavior.

Dogs are pretty observant and can sense insecurity. They’ll quickly figure out when you mean business and when they can get away with ignoring you.

So, stand tall, speak firmly, and keep calm to assert your alpha role. And be consistent—mixed signals can confuse your dog and worsen behavioral issues. In short, enforce rules without exception.

6. Leads the Walk

dog on lead walking — Source: Canva by Teamjackson from Getty Images

When your pup pulls on the leash, they’re deciding the pace, path, and destination of the walk. In canine behavior, the pack leader takes the lead, so this is clearly your dog calling the shots.

To turn the tables, use a much shorter leash to maintain better control. Stop walking whenever your dog pulls ahead, and resume only when they return to your side.

Think of it as teaching them the “heel” command through action. Each walk becomes a training opportunity.

Your dog learns that calm, controlled walking gets them where they want to go—and keeps you both happy.

Read Next: 10 Signs of a Happy Dog

7. Steals Food

Older beagle dog performing a trick to balance treat on nose — Source: Canva by patty_c from Getty Images Signature

When your dog helps themselves to food from your plate or counter, you’ve got a snack bandit on the loose. Your dog is challenging your authority, and if left unchecked, this can lead to dominance issues.

The solution? Establish rules around food. Never encourage begging, feed your dog from the table, or share food during meals.

Keep food out of reach to prevent temptation. Your dog needs to understand that mealtime is your time, and human food is off-limits unless specifically given.

8. Growls and Lunges at Others

Close up showing dog's bad breath — Source: Canva by Tamara528 from Getty Images

A bossy dog attacks for no reason. This aggressive behavior towards humans and other animals isn’t just embarrassing; it can be dangerous for everyone involved.

You can correct dominance aggression through training. Work with a professional specializing in behavioral modification techniques. Socializing your dog with other animals in controlled environments can also help.

9. Intimidating Stares

grumpy-tibetan-spaniel-in-snow — Image by Alexandru-Cătălin Stoica on Pexels

In the canine world, a hard stare can be a power move. Your pup might think they’re the alpha by trying to out-stare you, but you’re not playing that game.

Never force a stare-down, as this can escalate tension. Instead, teach the “look at me” command using positive reinforcement. When they make eye contact on your terms, reward them.

10. Licks You Excessively

dog licking woman — Source: Canva by Melnotte from Getty Images

Dog kisses are sweet. Excessive licking isn’t—it can be an attempt to control your attention.

Gently correct this bad behavior by offering a chew toy or engaging your dog in an activity. Consistent training helps reinforce boundaries.

Final Thoughts

brown dog with mouth open — Source: Canva by Cheryl Paz from Getty Images

Does your pup show any of these 10 signs your dog thinks it is the boss?

As a dog owner, you must set clear rules for them to live by. All these signs of dominance and aggression don’t ever have to happen if you have control of all aspects of your dog’s life.

Dog training is like raising a child. If you don’t set clear boundaries early, you’ll end up with a teenager (or in this case, an adult dog) who thinks they make the rules.

And like kids testing boundaries, our canine companions need consistent, loving guidance to feel secure in their pack structure. After all, even the bossiest dog is just trying to find their place in your family.

Amanda OBrien

Amanda created and owns The Discerning Cat. A lifelong cat lover she is the proud parent of two Siberian cats, Alexei and Vladimir. She is passionate about understanding cats and different cat breeds.