Are you aware of some of the common and most popular dog behaviour myths? Unveil these myths and clarify whether you need dog behaviour training courses.
When it comes to caring for your dog and being a good pet parent, you do various things.
Essentially, for your dog to be healthy and happy, you provide them healthy meals as well as a lifestyle or assign them to professional dog behaviour training courses for their betterment. So, it overall enhances their physical, behavioural, and mental health.
However, several beliefs keep us away from taking essential care of our pets.
Do you know what those myths are? Let’s debunk those myths and discover what areas you need to fix.
Myth 1: Dogs Age 7 Years for Every Human Year
Fact: While it’s true that dogs age faster than humans, the 7-year rule is a myth.
Different dog breeds age at different rates, and factors like size and genetics also play a role in determining aging.
Myth 2: A Wagging Tail Means a Happy Dog
Fact: While a wagging tail can indicate excitement or happiness in some cases, it can also signal fear, anxiety, or aggression depending on the context and other body language cues.
You can pay attention to the overall body language to interpret their mood accurately. Otherwise, you can put them in dog boarding training for professional treatment.
Myth 3: Dragging Its Bottom Means It Has Worms
Fact: While scooting or dragging their bottom on the ground can be a sign of worms, it can also indicate other issues like anal gland problems, allergies, or irritation. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
Myth 4: Alpha Dominance
Fact: Dogs do not try to establish dominance over their owners; instead, they respond to consistent leadership and positive reinforcement training.
To understand your furry friend better, you can focus on building a trusting and respectful relationship through reward-based training methods.
Myth 5: Old Pets Can’t Learn New Tricks
Fact: Dogs of all ages can learn new behaviours through proper training and positive reinforcement. While older ones may take longer to learn than puppies, they are still capable of learning and adapting. Be patient and consistent in your training efforts, and reward them for their progress.
Myth 6: Growling Means Aggression
Fact: Growling is a form of communication and can indicate a range of emotions, including fear, anxiety, or discomfort.
Punishing them for growling can suppress warning signals and lead to more serious behaviour issues.
Instead, identify the cause of the growling, address it appropriately or ask your veteran.
Myth 7: Eating Grass Means They’re Sick
Fact: While some dogs may eat grass when they have an upset stomach, many enjoy eating grass as a normal behaviour. As long as they’re not consuming large amounts or showing signs of illness, it’s usually not a cause for concern.
Myth 8: Dogs That Chew Shoes Are Bored
Fact: While boredom can contribute to destructive chewing behavior, it’s not the only reason dogs chew shoes or other objects. They may also chew due to anxiety, teething, or a lack of appropriate chew toys.
Provide them with plenty of mental and physical stimulation, and redirect their chewing behaviour towards acceptable alternatives like chew toys or bones.
Myth 9: You Can’t Train a Rescued Dog
Fact: While rescued dogs may come with their own set of challenges, they can be trained and rehabilitated with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement techniques.
Many rescued dogs go on to become well-behaved, loving companions. Seek guidance from a qualified trainer or behaviourist to address any behavioural issues and help your rescued friend adjust to their new home.
Myth 10: Feeling Guilt
Fact: While dogs may exhibit behaviours that appear to be guilty, such as avoiding eye contact or slinking away, they are actually responding to their owner’s body language and tone of voice. Dogs do not feel guilt in the same way humans do.
Instead of punishing them for perceived misbehaviour, focus on positive reinforcement training or group dog training classes to address and improve the underlying cause of the behaviour.
Conclusion
Understanding the truth behind these common behaviour myths is essential for building a strong and trusting relationship with your canine companion.
By debunking these myths and employing positive reinforcement dog boarding training techniques, you can ensure a happy and harmonious life together with your furry friend.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
