Debunking 15 Common Dog Myths

Dogs are our loyal companions, but even the most dedicated pet owners can fall for some long-standing myths about their pets. Misconceptions about their senses and behavior can lead to misunderstandings and improper care. We’ve compiled a list according to set the record straight and debunk 15 of the most common dog myths to help you build a better relationship with your dog.
Dogs Can’t See Colors

Despite common misconceptions, dogs perceive the world differently from humans. Although their color vision is less extensive, they can distinguish shades of blue and yellow. This means they perceive the world in a more muted color palette but see more than grayscale. Understanding this helps us choose toys and accessories in colors they can easily distinguish.
A Single Year for Humans is Equivalent to Seven Years for Dogs

The idea that one human year equals seven dog years is a simplification and only partially true. Dog aging varies significantly depending on breed and size. Big dogs often experience aging more quickly than smaller breeds, and puppies mature more quickly than adult dogs. A more accurate way to know a dog’s age is to consider its breed, size, and developmental stage.
You Can’t Teach an Old Dog New Tricks

The adage “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks” is not true. Regardless of age, dogs can adapt to new behaviors and commands through patience and positive reinforcement. While older dogs may require more time to grasp novel tricks, their learning capacity remains unchanged. Training sessions also provide mental stimulation, which proves advantageous for senior dogs.
A Dog’s Wagging Tail Indicates Friendliness

While a wagging tail can indicate happiness, it’s not always a sign of friendliness. Dogs employ their tails to express various emotions, such as excitement, agitation, and aggression. The position and speed of the wag can offer more clues about how the dog is feeling.
Dogs Munch On Grass When They Are Sick

While it’s commonly thought that dogs eat grass to provoke vomiting when they’re unwell, this behavior doesn’t necessarily indicate illness. Some dogs may consume grass purely out of enjoyment for its taste or texture. Again, occasional grass-eating may be harmless, but frequent or excessive consumption might indicate dietary deficiencies or gastrointestinal issues.
A Wet Nose Means a Healthy Dog

A cold, wet nose is not a reliable indicator of a dog’s health. Dogs’ noses can be warm and dry for various reasons, including weather and hydration levels. The best way to assess your dog’s health is by monitoring their behavior, appetite, and energy levels. Routine visits to the veterinarian will also ensure your dog stays healthy and happy over time.
Dogs Look Guilty When They’ve Misbehaved

The “guilty look” often attributed to dogs is a response to their owner’s body language and tone. When a dog appears to look guilty, it usually reacts to the cues from its owner rather than feeling remorse. Studies show that dogs don’t experience guilt like humans do.
It’s Okay to Leave Your Dog in a Car on a Hot Day If Your Windows Are Down

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Leaving a dog alone in a parked vehicle poses significant risks, even with open windows. The interior temperature of cars can escalate rapidly, potentially leading to heatstroke for dogs within a short timeframe. It is advisable to keep your dog at home or bring it along if you’re making stops.
All Rescue Dogs Are Damaged and Not Suitable as Pets

Rescue dogs come from diverse backgrounds; many are loving, well-behaved pets. Assuming all rescue dogs are “damaged” perpetuates harmful stereotypes and discourages adoption. Rescue dogs can thrive in a loving home with proper care and training. Each dog deserves a chance to be evaluated on their temperament and potential.
Purebred Dogs Are Better Behaved

Training is among several factors that shape behavior, socialization, and individual personality, not just breeds. Purebred dogs are not inherently better behaved than mixed breeds. Both pedigree and mixed-breed dogs can be well-mannered or challenging, depending on their upbringing.
Dogs Can Safely Enjoy Small Amounts of Chocolate

Even a tiny bit of chocolate can pose a severe health risk to dogs. Chocolate is rich in substances like theobromine and caffeine, which dogs metabolize at a relatively slow rate, potentially causing poisoning. Symptoms of chocolate toxicity in dogs may manifest as vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, and seizures.
You Need to Show Your Dog Authority by Being the Pack Leader

The concept of dominance-based training needs to be updated, as it can harm the relationship between you and your dog. Modern training methods emphasize positive reinforcement and building a bond based on trust and respect. Dogs respond better to reward-based training rather than fear or intimidation.
You Can Catch a Cold from Your Dog

Common cold is caused by viruses that are typically species-specific. While dogs and humans can share some illnesses, the viruses that cause colds in humans don’t affect dogs and vice versa. However, good hygiene and regular veterinary care are essential to prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases.
A Female Dog May Experience a Sense of Incompleteness Without Having a Litter

Repeating the myth, it’s important to stress that female dogs do not experience emotional emptiness from not having puppies. Spaying is a responsible decision that prevents health issues and unwanted litter. Dogs’ needs and behaviors are not analogous to human feelings of emptiness.
You Can Give Your Dog Paracetamol for a Headache

It’s important to avoid giving human pain medications, like paracetamol (acetaminophen), to dogs without consulting a veterinarian. Dogs process medications differently than humans, and some substances can lead to serious harm, including organ damage or fatal outcomes. Before giving any medication to your dog, seek advice from a veterinarian.