Myth-busting with Mutts

Busting some common canine behaviour myths and misconceptions so that you can strengthen the bond with your beloved four-legged friend!

Playing tug-of-war makes dogs aggressive

If you are a pet parent, you know the joy dogs get while playing tug-of-war. In most pet households, playtime is divided mostly between fetch and tug-of-war. Despite this, many people believe that playing tug-of-war can make their pets aggressive.

This is a myth and you shouldn’t believe it. Your pet might indeed get vocal through growls or huffs while playing tug-of-war, but there is no proof that this leads to aggression. It is a way for your pet to show excitement and happiness, so don’t devoid him and let the playtime continue!

Wagging tail = happy dog

Yes, this is the most common myth and most people fall prey to it. Dogs wag their tail to convey a variety of emotions like – happiness, anxiety, excitement, or even when feeling threatened. You can sense the happiness and excitement in his overall behaviour and the gleam in his eyes.

But if your pet has held his tail low while wagging, it may indicate fear and anxiety. The wagging tail should be considered as part of the body language and not just an individual parameter to get to know your pet’s mood!

You can’t teach an old dog, new tricks

This one is also really common. You can train an old dog, just that you need to have the right technique. Experts believe that training your old pet will keep him engaged and his mind active. Be patient with him and you’ll see your fido will soon pick up the trick.

Dogs feel guilty

When you find your pet has chewed the sofa leg or shredded the cushion and you say ‘Who has done this and who is a bad boy?’; your pet’s eyes well up and he’ll make a puppy face. You would think that he is feeling guilty for the mess he has created. But that’s a myth. Your pet doesn’t feel guilty or overthinks like we humans do. He is just reacting to your raised volume or you incessantly scolding him.

Avoid socializing your pup until he’s fully vaccinated

This is a myth and you need to stop believing it ASAP. The critical socialization period for puppies is between three weeks to 14 weeks of age. It is during this time that your pup will start to understand the world, make new friends, and discover new sights and smells. Most pet parents are afraid to take their pups out because he is tiny and hasn’t developed his immunity fully making him prone to infections and illnesses. But that doesn’t mean you restrict your pup indoors. Take him outdoors, start with a small duration, and gradually increase it.

Vaccinations are administered every three to four weeks until at least 15-16 weeks of age. If you wait till all his vaccinations are done, then you’ll lose that golden period and there are high chance that your pup will become fearful and may even lack the necessary social skills.

If your dog growls, its aggression!

You should consider growling as a warning sign that your pet is giving. He might growl at something he is scared of or when feeling uncomfortable. Never punish your pet for growling, he will associate it in a negative sense which will cause him more stress. Try to understand your pet’s body language and remove the triggers so that he doesn’t growl. And if the growling continues, you should consider consulting a professional dog behaviour expert.

All dogs are water babies

Yes, most dogs love swimming and being in the water. But some breeds may not like water. Not every dog is a natural swimmer and you need to respect your pet’s individuality. If your pet gets scared or anxious while swimming, you can be in the water with him and make him wear a life jacket to make him feel safe!

Dogs like hugs

We know that hugging and cuddling with your beloved is a stress-buster for you. But what about your pet? It is a misconception that dogs like hugs. Most dogs don’t like hugs. They feel trapped and it can make them annoyed. It would be best if you train your pet to tolerate hugs and cuddles from an early age so that he feels comfortable. And always make sure to not overdo it.

Dogs hate cats

Fighting like dogs and cats came from this only. But it is a myth that you need to stop believing. There are many multi-pet households where dogs and cats live happily ever after. They have different instincts and behaviours, which can complicate the relationship. But with a little work and lots of care, this relationship can thrive well.

You should have their specific treats, and keep their toys and food bowls separate, and proper socialization also plays a pivotal role in shaping your pet’s relationship with the world and each other.