Wild wolves are a strong example of how a human can be a pack leader for their dog. In a wolf pack there is a hierarchy. There are two alphas, one male and one female. These two control where the pack will eat and sleep. They also keep the pack in order by correcting any mistakes that the lower ranking wolves may make. The next in line is the beta wolf or the second in command. Even though this wolf is not an alpha, he or she still helps the alphas to keep order. He or she, along with the alphas, help to train and care for the puppies. Next is the omega wolf or wolves. These are lower ranking wolves that act more like puppies than adults. They are often the ones that are constantly being corrected by the higher ranking wolves. After the omega comes the puppies, those who are mature in no way.
In your own household there is probably also a hierarchy of sorts. You as the adult(s) and/or parent(s) are the alpha in your home or at least you should be. Next there may be a child that is older than the rest who has positioned his or herself as beta or your second in command. This child will probably be the one that is older and extremely bossy or is willing to teach their younger siblings how to do everything. Next is the younger child or children. These may be the omegas of the family. These are the children that have taken no real authority in the family or are too young to do so. Now, lets say you have decided to get a dog or already have one. As alpha you are supposed to keep your dog from being bad. If they pee on the floor, you correct them. You do not have to spank them, but making some sort of sound or using a certain word while physically touching them when they do it is good. When you do correct your dog you can form your hand into a claw and tap them on the side with a little bit of pressure which will simulate the nip of an alpha wolf.
You may also notice that your dog is trying to push itself to a higher position in the pack. This will more than likely start with the children, especially if they are too young to get the concept of putting the dog in its place. You are the one who should put your dog in its place if it starts to push too hard. Sometimes a dog will fight for the position of alpha. If you do not give your dog enough exercise or do not correct its bad behavior then you will find your dog in control and yourself frustrated. This is not because your dog is mean in anyway. This is because you showed weakness and it immediately assumed the role of alpha to keep the pack in order. In the wild there is a constant battle to be at the top if the alpha(s) show a sign of weakness. To be the alpha you must always have confidence in your ability to handle your dog.