Well, unlike the most common misconception that to "be alpha is to be agressive", most animals in the "alpha" position of the pack will be quite gracious and lenient, because they are secure in the knowledge of their position in the pack and don't have to be aggressive or assertive. Most dogs that are aggressive or assertive are those that are working themselves up the pack and are fighting for every ounce of control. So that fact that Maximus is laid back most of the time and allows you to do things, does not necessarily mean he is "not" the alpha. But it certainly does not mean that he is, either.
I would ask you, where does he sleep. If he sleeps in the bed with you, where on the bed? at the foot or at your head? Has he always slept with you. Or did he earn the privledge to sleep with you? Who goes out the door first you or him? When going for walks, who leads the way? Does he work for his treats and dinner? (do you make him sit 1st before you give him one?) Where are his toys? Does he have full access of them. Or do you dole them out to him only after he sits for them? Are you able to take them away at will without a fight from him? does he demand your attention and you give it to him?
Answers to these questions would help more to determine his status. |