Considering your history with this dog, I wouldn't get hung up on pack leader and dominant/submissive labels. I believe it will complicate your relationship in negative ways. You risk focusing on inconsequential things.
It's important to me that my dogs are well-behaved, but I view our relationship more as a partnership. Sure, I'm in charge, but I don't get hung up on where they sleep or whether or not they walk in front of me on the leash.
I strongly believe in positive reinforcement training. The only "negatives" that I employ is withdrawing attention (when safe to do so) and I do raise my voice (not screaming or ranting, just forceful) at certain times. I have 2 very strong males and the older one, while a very good boy, has a cast iron will. Each dog is unique and has a slightly different set of requirements, but I promise positive reinforcement is the way to go.
Be a good leader in the sense of setting a good example and setting the dog up for success. A dog without (polite) direction, without trust, without exercise and fun, without rewards of love and praise for good stuff, will be a dog with behavioral issues.
__________________ Kristin, Max and Teddy  |