Possessive, territorial behaviors are often shown by dogs to proclaim themselves the ‘real’ leader of their pack. If you have a German Shepherd guarding its food or guarding an object it has found on the ground, these are clear signs that your dog is not content with being second-in-command of your home.
If you have a pup that exhibits submissive gestures of laying on his back, exposing its stomach region, and/or licking another member of the pack then there is no need for worry. This behavior displays appeasement gestures which can reduce tensions often seen during hierarchical battles between two dominant members in the pack. When trying to show affection, however, most breeds will lick first on any body part they can reach instead of on…