We all want to do the very best for our dogs. Dear readers, I know you would never intentionally do a thing that you know your dog doesn’t like. According to dog behavioral experts, there are some everyday things that humans do to dogs that they despise.
Since we know you want what is best for your special puppers, we will get right to it.
#1 Use Too Many Words and Not Enough Body Language
Humans, especially if you’re like me, really like to talk. You can often find me chattering away at the dogs in my life. As much as we believe they understand everything we say, when it comes to commands, keep it short and simple.
I am not telling you to stop chatting with your dog. However, when it comes time for your dog to obey you, use short, one word commands, and body language. Dogs have become experts at reading a human’s body language. If their human uses too many words, but they can tell through body language that they are upset, it’s really stressful.
If you are unclear about what type of body language to use, there are classes you can take and even some material online to help you figure it out.
#2 Hugging
Yeah, yeah, I know. Who doesn’t love to hug their dog? As it turns out, though, a vast majority of the time, they really hate it. As humans, hugs are comforting and show love. Dogs are canids, however, and they just work differently.
When a dog places a forearm on another dog, it is a sign of dominance. No matter your intentions when you go in for that hug, to most dogs it feels like a possible attack is imminent.
This guideline is especially true for children. A vast majority of biting incidents occur when a child gives a dog an unwanted hug or squeeze.
#3 Patting a Dog on the Head
Okay, before you get upset, stick with me here. Do you like to get patted on the head? Some of you might. However, if you really think about it, getting tapped on the head can be jarring and obtrusive. It can be super annoying and sometimes painful.
Yes, many dogs put up with this from people that they trust. That doesn’t mean they like it, however. It’s much better to pet them, slowly, right above their tail or down their side. Again, when teaching your children how to best interact with a dog, show them never to pet the face or the head.
Personal note: I have yet to meet a pit bull that doesn’t like to have their giant jaws rubbed. Look for signs of distress, though, like laid back ears or a tail between the legs for a real indication of whether or not your dog is enjoying itself.
#4 Looking a Strange Dog in the Eye When Approaching Them
Have you ever had someone look you right in the eye, without blinking, for an extended period? If you have, you know how unnerving it can be, even for humans. For dogs, though, it’s more than unnerving. For a dog, unbroken eye contact can be an act of aggression.
The best way to greet a new dog is a way that is comfortable for both you and the dog. Experts advise humans not to stand with their shoulders squared toward the dog. Sort of angle yourself to appear less threatening. Don’t make direct eye contact. Instead, avert your eyes slightly and speak quietly until the new dog gets to know you a little bit.
#5 Going for Walks and Not Getting the Chance to Explore or Smell
It’s incredibly important to walk your dog often and give them a chance to exercise. However, for dogs, just walking down the street isn’t quite getting the job done.
Humans enjoy walks because we can look around and see the sights around us as we go. Dogs, though, see with their noses. So, if you are taking them for a walk and refusing to allow them to sniff their surroundings, it’s like you going for that same walk with a blindfold covering your eyes. And that’s no fun at all.
Of course, not every walk can spare enough time to do this. Please do remember, though, that your doggo will thank you for taking the time now and then to allow them to sniff the roses.
Just remember to keep an eye on the surroundings for any possible dangers like the one found by this unfortunate couple.
SUMMARY
In summation, this is a short list. Please click on those links if you are still confused about how your dog really feels about thigs. With a little work, you can make their life even less confusing. We all want the best for our fur babies, not confused an unhappy dogs.
Do you have anything to add to this list? Let us know in the comments.
Feature Image via Pixabay
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