I've got a pit bull. Having a dominant breed of dog has its advantages and challenges. They are great protection for your family and belongings, and my dog especially is great for exercise as well. But the challenge is that his biology makes him want to take the lead. To be the alpha.

One thing that I have learned is that dogs are happiest when NOT in an alpha position. Alpha wolves do not play. They do not have fun. They spend their time hunting and keeping the other wolves in check through aggression, and breeding. Your dog in your house is basically a wolf, despite however it may look. To have a happy, healthy dog, YOU must be the alpha. He must be at the very bottom of the totem pole. His biology will force him to test me and try to take the mantle of alpha, and I must always assert myself. He must always know who is in charge. I do not use aggression, I am not a wolf. I use energy and frame of mind and this keeps him in a puppy like state. A state of happiness. He will still perform his duties as guard dog, and woe to the man who threatens our pack. But the point is, despite his biology pushing him to challenge for the alpha position, he is at his best and happiest when he is not.

Women are sort of like this. My wife thinks sometimes that she wants to wear the pants. Often in fact, much like my dog. She will test me, and try, and the same as my dog, through my energy and frame of mind, there is never any doubt who is the Alpha of the relationship. And much like my dog, despite her biology...she would not be happy as the alpha. She performs best and is at her happiest when her subconscious knows that she is not the one in control.

I know how you guys feel about LTR's, and I don't blame you. I just thought my life experience may be relevant or of help to some of the readers here. I derive immense pleasure and fulfillment from my wife and daughter. I simply must never forget the truths of our biology (dog included), and all will share in the fulfillment.