> My experience with both dogs and wolves is that a true Alpha does not pick
> on others. They are true born leaders respected by others naturally, so
> usually need very little if any aggression to make their position clear.

That would certainly explain why our Lab is CONSTANTLY trying to put the ES 
on his back.  It LOOKS like play, but there's gotta be something behind it. 
Personally, I've always felt that the Lab is not (and should not be) an 
alpha, but he keeps at least trying to prove the ES that he's higher up than 
he is.  I guess this means I"M not being a good enough alpha!  And the ES, 
of course, now that he's big enough, is going to take advantage of the Lab's 
insecurity.  So now they're really trying to figure out their places in the 
pecking order respective of each other.

Thanks!
 Tati