Barking up The truth: Busting 20 common doggie misconceptions

1. Dogs see the world in black and white

Dogs don’t see the world in black and white. They see colors, but not as vividly as humans do. Their vision is similar to a person with red-green color blindness. Imagine a world where the grass is more yellowish and the sky isn’t quite as blue – that’s your furry friend’s view. So, next time your pet ignores the bright red ball cut him some slack; he might think it’s just another shade of gray.

2. Wagging Tail = Happy Dog

While a wagging tail often indicates happiness, it can also signal anxiety, agitation, or other emotions. It’s all about the context and the tail’s position. If your pet’s tail is wagging but his ears are back and he is growling, it’s not a happy wag – it’s a warning! Think of it as the doggy version of a nervous smile.

3. You can’t teach an old doggo new tricks

Age is just a number! Older dogs can learn new tricks and commands just like puppies can. It might take a bit more patience, but senior dogs are often more focused and less distracted than their younger counterparts. So, if Grandpa Paws can’t sit still, it’s not his age – he’s just being stubborn. Ever tried teaching your grandpa to use a smartphone?

4. One dog year equals seven human years

The “one dog year equals seven human years” rule is an oversimplification. Dogs age faster in their early years and slower as they get older. A one-year-old dog is more like a teenager, full of energy and mischief. So, if your five-year-old pet is acting like a sassy teenager, it’s because he kind of is one! Think of him as the moody adolescent of the canine world.

5. All dogs hate cats

Many dogs live peacefully with cats and even become best buddies. It all depends on their personalities and how they’re introduced. If a cat and dog can co-star in a cute internet video, peace is possible! Just like unlikely friendships in high school movies, they can become the best of pals.

6. Dogs can eat anything people can

Some human foods are toxic for dogs – chocolate, grapes, raisins, garlic, onions, and chewing gums. It’s important to know what foods are safe for your pet and to stick to a diet that meets his specific nutritional needs. So, next time you’re tempted to share your chocolate cake, remember, that dogs don’t get to have dessert.

7. Dogs heal themselves by licking their wounds

While a little licking can help clean a wound, excessive licking can lead to infection and further injury. If your furry friend has a wound, it’s best to clean it properly and prevent him from licking it too much. They’re not as good at playing doctor as they think they are. Leave the doctoring to, well, the vets!

8. You shouldn’t let your furry friend sleep in your bed

Letting dogs sleep in your bed is a personal choice. It can strengthen the bond between you and your pet. As long as both you and your pet are comfortable and are getting good sleep, there’s no harm. Just be prepared to lose some blanket real estate! And don’t be surprised if you wake up clinging to the edge of the bed.

9. The love for fetch is unmatched

Not all dogs enjoy fetching. Some breeds have an instinct to retrieve, while others couldn’t care less. If your pet looks at you blankly when you throw a ball, don’t take it personally – he might just prefer a good game of tug-of-war. Or he might be thinking, “You threw it, you fetch it.”

10. All doggos are water babies

While some breeds like Labradors and Newfoundland are known for their love of swimming, not all dogs are fans of the water. Some dogs are more like cats in this regard and would prefer to keep all four paws dry. Remember, not every pup wants to be the next Michael Phelps. Some just want to be dry land loungers.

11. Dogs have a pack mentality like wolves

Domestic dogs are not wolves. While they do have social structures, they don’t always follow a strict pack hierarchy. Your pet doesn’t see you as the “alpha,” but rather as a member of his social group. The idea of alpha dominance is outdated and oversimplified. Your pet probably thinks you’re more like the pack’s snack supplier.

12. Small dogs are always yappy

While some small breeds are more vocal, it’s not true for all of them. Small dogs often bark more because they are more alert and protective, but with proper training, any dog can learn to bark less. It’s not the size of the dog in the bark, but the size of the bark in the dog! And sometimes, small dogs have big personalities to match.

13. Dogs don’t need structured exercise

Even if you have a big yard, your pet still needs structured exercise and mental stimulation. He might run around the yard for a bit, but without walks and playtime, they can get bored and even destructive. A yard is not a substitute for quality time with their humans. Think of it as giving a kid a playground but no friends to play with.

14. Dogs only understand simple commands

Dogs are smarter than we often give them credit for. They can learn to understand a wide variety of commands and even pick up on subtle cues from their pet parents. With patience and consistency, your pet can be trained to do some pretty complex tasks. He might not understand calculus, but he is certainly more than just sit-and-stay machine.

15. Dogs that growl are always aggressive

Growling is a way of communication in dogs. It can indicate fear, discomfort, and sometimes even playfulness. It’s important to pay attention to the context and his complete body language. A growl doesn’t always mean aggression; sometimes it’s just a way of saying, “I’m not comfortable with this.” Think of it as their way of saying, “Back off, buddy!”

16. Dogs don’t need teeth brushing

Dental health is crucial for dogs. Just like humans, dogs can suffer from dental diseases that can lead to serious health issues. Regular teeth brushing and dental check-ups are essential for keeping your pet’s mouth healthy and happy. So, grab that doggy toothbrush and get scrubbing – your furry friend’s pearly whites will thank you!

17. Dogs’ paws are indestructible

Dogs’ paw pads are tough, but they are not invincible. Hot pavement, icy sidewalks, and rough terrain can cause injury. It’s important to protect your pet’s paws, especially in extreme weather conditions. Also, check them regularly for cuts and abrasions. Treat those paws with the same care you’d give your own feet – they’ve got miles to walk and mischief to make.

18. Dogs can be left alone for long periods

While dogs can be alone for a few hours, they are social animals and need interaction. Leaving your pet alone for long periods can lead to separation anxiety and destructive behavior. If you have a busy schedule, consider a doggy daycare or a pet sitter. Remember, he misses you as much as you miss them – maybe even more!

19. Dogs and depression, not really a match

Dogs can experience depression and anxiety just like humans. Changes in environment, the loss of a companion, or lack of mental stimulation can affect your pet’s mood. If your furry friend seems unusually sad or lethargic, it might be worth a trip to the vet or a behaviorist. Sometimes all he needs is a little extra love and a lot more belly rubs.

20. All dogs are natural swimmers

While many dogs can swim, not all dogs are natural swimmers. Breeds with short legs or heavy bodies, like Bulldogs, may struggle in the water. It’s important to introduce your pet to water gradually and always supervise him while he is swimming. Not every dog is born to be a doggy paddle champ – some prefer to stay on the shore and watch the waves.

We know that our understanding of dogs has come a long way. Busting these myths not only gives us a better insight into our furry friends but also brings a smile to our faces with their quirky and lovable antics. Here’s to many more years of learning, laughing, and loving our canine companions.

Cheers to the next 20 years of tail wagging!