It's common in adolescence for dogs to start to figure out what their role is in the family. It's important that we make it clear to the dog that the leadership role, that's already taken. You don't need to fill that role, Sia. Working on her stays is one way to help to establish that leadership. So is the follow through when she doesn't comply. It's easy to give up the fight and say "Oh forget it, she's not going to do it." and walk away. But that starts to establish a pattern with her and she starts to get the idea that she's the Boss.
Practicing sits and downs throughout the day, even when she's busy doing something else not only helps her with her self-control but also lets her know you are in charge. She's been doing really well shifting off to one hip in her downs showing that she is settling in more and not ready to leap up as soon as the thought crosses her mind.
We are also doing a lot of waiting at doors. She need not charge through and push her way in. One of the nice things about being a good leader though is you don't need to be loud or forceful. In fact, if you find yourself having to do that, it's a good indication that something is lacking in the leadership department.
But a simple body block speaks volumes to Sia. As she tries to go through the doorway, just moving your body in front of hers and blocking her access is enough to get her to back off. At that point you are controlling the space. Dogs listen to body language much more than they do words.
Probably one of the most challenging things to do to establish leadership is to avoid slipping into the mindless petting. This can be VERY hard. She's so sweet. It doesn't mean you can't ever randomly pet her, it just means that you should avoid letting her demand that attention. Have her come to you if you want to pet her or have her do a sit before you pet her. Your attention is a resource to her and as the leader, you control the resources.
Leadership is about your relationship with Sia. The things you do to establish that relationship are subtle and small but they make a world of difference.
When you are the leader, you can teach Sia that it's not her job to defend the homestead. You've got that covered...
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