The movie Snow Dogs also had advice that you should bite the ear of the alpha dog. Everyone said do it. However, when the greenhorn did it they all said "They say do it, but no one ever does!"
I have actually done this with every pup I've ever owned (gently) combined with a growl. Likewise, I have also put my hand on their necks and held them on the floor for a few seconds when they exhibited dominant behavior like nipping or pacing, again gently, and for a 5 count max, with no commands or scolding, just till they stop squirming. It doesn't make them more easily house broken or stop eating the quail they are supposed to be retrieving, but I have never once been snarled at or bitten, even if I were taking what they considered food (the aforementioned quail or a a half rotted possum from their mouths). Its just letting them know who is Alpha in terms they understand. Dogs are pack animals and the occasional show of dominance combined with affection goes a long way. It may have been efffective, or it may have gotten me a mouthful of puppy ear for no good reason, but I can't argue about the results.
FQ13 who is no dog whisperer, but has had some pretty good dogs over the years.