The real question is not if your dog can get on the couch
That is really a personal choice. It is up to you to decide if your furry friend is allowed on the furniture or not. If you think keeping your dog off the furniture is going to help you establish your “alpha role”, think twice. The notion of “alpha dog” had been misunderstood for a long time. Research and scientists now agree that there is a lot we do not know about dogs and wolves. Their social structure is a far more complexed and advanced that we think. For sure not based in fear and submission.
If you watch a group of well socialized dogs at the dog park for example. One is definitely the leader. But notice that he is not the leader all the time and with different activities, another dog might take the lead.
So what is the real question then?
- Will your dog get off the couch when you ask him to?
- Will he growls when another person sits there?
- Will he growl at you when you ask him to move?
If the answer is no – then you have no problem. But if your dog is being protective, growls or does not get off the coach when you ask him to, then there is an issue.
What is the issue?
Your dog is showing an aggressive behavior and this has nothing to do with being on the couch, bed or furniture.
Does This Mean That Your Dog Should Rule The House?
Of course not. Like children, dogs need structure and rules so they can cohabit with us in harmony and be healthy emotionally.
They can also learn more subtle things such as patience, asking permission to get on the couch or on the bed. In one world be polite and well mannered. This is part of the training as well.
If your dog growls at you or does not listen to you when on the couch you definitly need to address the behavior. It has nothing to do with being on the couch. He is probably showing aggression in other areas as well (around food, toys?) A dog behaviorist will be very hepful in this case.
So back to the original question: On or off the couch
If you dog is well mannered, get off the couch when asked to and you are OK with him on the furniture, then enjoy it.
If you need to address aggressive behavior issues, for the moment keeping him off the furniture is a very good thing. Find a good positive dog trainer or behaviorist in your area and quickly address the situation.
