In today’s blog, we will debunk 11 common myths and misconceptions about dogs to help you better understand your furry friend.
01 Aggression and Abandonment
Some believe that once a dog has bitten someone, it can never be trusted or kept. This view is not entirely accurate. Dog aggression can be addressed through professional training and behavior modification. It’s crucial to identify the root cause of the issue and work with a professional trainer and veterinarian to improve the dog's behavior.
02 Dominance Training
Many think that to train a dog successfully, you need to establish yourself as the "alpha." However, research shows that positive reinforcement is more effective than dominance-based training. Dogs don’t need to be intimidated or suppressed to learn; positive reinforcement can make them happier and perform better.
03 Dogs' Color Vision
Although dogs have fewer cone cells in their eyes, they don’t see only in black and white. Dogs can perceive shades of gray, blue, and yellow, and they have excellent night vision, allowing them to notice movement from afar.
04 Human Colds and Dogs
Human colds do not spread to dogs because the viruses that cause colds do not easily transfer between species. However, colds can be transmitted between dogs, so if your dog is sick, it’s best to avoid contact with other dogs.
05 Dogs' Oral Hygiene
A dog's mouth is not cleaner than a human's. They might eat garbage, cat litter, and other things that can lead to bacterial growth. Regular brushing is essential to reduce the risk of infection.
06 Signs of Pain in Dogs
Dogs do not always vocalize when they are in pain. They might show discomfort through behavioral changes such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or tucking their tail. Owners should observe subtle changes and seek veterinary care if necessary.
07 Safety of Co-Sleeping with Dogs
Concerns about co-sleeping with dogs are often exaggerated. Recent studies show that co-sleeping is safe for both humans and dogs, provided the dog is healthy and free of parasites, and it can even improve sleep quality.
08 Dogs and Guilt
Dogs do not feel guilt for doing something wrong. Their "guilty" behavior is actually a form of appeasement and a reaction to their owner’s emotions, not an indication of understanding their mistake.
09 Tail Wagging Meanings
A dog’s tail wagging does not always indicate happiness. Tail wagging can signify excitement, fear, or anxiety, and should be interpreted in the context of the dog's overall behavior and situation.
10 Training Older Dogs
Older dogs can still learn new skills. While they may not be as curious or energetic as younger dogs, with patience, senior dogs can definitely learn new things.
11 Why Dogs Eat Grass
Many dogs eat grass not because they are ill. Research shows that grass-eating is an instinctive behavior similar to wild animals’ habits. Healthy dogs may exhibit this behavior as well.
We hope this information helps you better understand and care for your dog. If you found this article useful, be sure to follow us and share any myths or misconceptions you’ve encountered in the comments!
