If you’re a dog owner, there is a high chance you’ve heard many of the myths about dog behaviour out there. Maybe some of your own friends or family have said things to you that just aren’t true about dogs. Unfortunately, man’s best friend can sometimes get a bad rap due to dog behaviour myths out there.
You can help stop the spread of these myths by learning the truth and sharing it with others. Here are some common myths about dog behaviour that you need to be aware of:
- Dogs run in packs- This myth often states that there is a clear social order among dogs and that they run in packs in the wild. On closer observation, it has been discovered that this isn’t actually true.
- In households with multiple dogs there is a “hierarchy” that you need to support by giving the dominant dog things first such as food, treats, attention, etc. – There is also no evidence that this exists and that it has anything to do with your dogs’ social interaction.
- Petting your dog while he’s afraid rewards the fear.- This is another myth. Petting or patting your dog while he’s afraid shows him you support him. It is a way to reinforce safety. Think of it like a child. Do you punish a child for being afraid? Does soothing a frightened child teach them to be more afraid next time?
- Rewards and treats are seen as bribes and can compromise the relationship. This is another myth. Rewards are different from bribes in the sense that they are given after the act or behaviour and not before it.
- Playing tug can make your dog aggressive. There is also no evidence to support this.
- Giving dogs chew toys can teach them to chew everything. This is another myth. Giving your dog chew toys is good for the teeth and can actually prevent chewing on other things.
The more you learn about popular and common dog myths, the better able you will be to spread the truth instead of continuing the perpetuation of the myth. This also helps you form a closer relationship with your dog because you understand the truth of his behaviour better.
