The alpha roll is a type of restraint designed to communicate dominance over your dog. The human will gently flip the dog over on its back and forces it to stay in that position until it stops wiggling. It's best to do this with young puppies so you can cradle them in your arm like a baby. The bigger they get, the harder it is to physically hold them in one position, so practice when they're weak! Alpha roll establishes you as the "alpha", or leader. You communicate control and strength.