Hey there, fellow dog lovers! Today, we’re gonna talk about some of the big no-nos when it comes to our furry friends. You know, those things you should NEVER do when you have a dog. You might think you’ve got this whole pet parenting thing down, but some of these might just surprise you! So, grab your pup, and let’s dive right in.
- Say “Goodbye” to Your Precious Shoes
Unless you’re a fan of the “pre-chewed” look, never leave your favorite shoes lying around. Dogs are notorious for turning your beloved footwear into chew toys, so it’s best to keep them tucked away in a closet. Invest in some doggy chew toys to save your shoes and keep your pup entertained!
It’s not only shoes either, dogs love eating socks too! So, be sure to check out this guide to train them not to: https://www.puppytrainedright.com/site/blog/2020/12/17/how-do-i-get-my-dog-to-stop-eating-socks, and in the meantime don’t leave any socks, or anything else you would not like to be chewed, really, lying around either!
- Hit the Snooze Button (R.I.P. Lazy Mornings)
That snooze button on your alarm clock? Yeah, forget about it. Dogs thrive on routine, and they’re better than any alarm clock. Once you’ve established a morning routine with your pup, they’ll make sure you stick to it. Say hello to early morning walks, potty breaks, and face-licking wake-up calls! You can try to resist them but most dogs have an iron will and will keep bugging you until you take them to do what it is they need to do!
- Play Tug-of-War with Forbidden Objects
We’ve all done it – accidentally played tug-of-war with our dog using something we really didn’t want them to have. But, please, resist the urge! By doing this, you’re teaching them that it’s okay to grab and play with anything they can get their paws on. Stick to designated dog toys for playtime to avoid any household disasters.
- Skimp on Socialization
Socialization is key to raising a well-rounded, confident, and happy dog. Neglecting to introduce your pup to various people, animals, and environments early on can lead to anxiety and fear later in life. So, take your dog to dog parks, pet-friendly cafes, or just for a walk around the neighborhood. The more experiences they have, the better!
- Turn a Blind Eye to Bad Behavior
Now, we all know our dogs are angels, but sometimes they can act like little devils. When your dog misbehaves, it’s important to address the behavior right away. Ignoring bad behavior can lead to long-term issues that are much harder to fix. Be patient, consistent, and use positive reinforcement to help your dog learn the right way to behave.
- Forget the Vet (No, Seriously, Don’t)
Just like us humans, dogs need regular check-ups to stay healthy. Skipping those annual visits to the vet can mean missing out on early detection of potential health issues. Make sure you keep up with vaccinations, dental care, and any other necessary treatments to keep your pup in tip-top shape.
- Leave ‘Em in the Car
This one’s a biggie! Never, ever leave your dog in a parked car, especially on a hot day. Temperatures can skyrocket inside a vehicle, even with the windows cracked, leading to heatstroke or worse. If you’re running errands, it’s best to leave your furry friend at home where they’re safe and cool.
- Let ‘Em Roam Free (Off-Leash)
As much as we’d like to think our dogs are perfectly obedient, the reality is that they can be unpredictable. Allowing your dog to roam off-leash in an unsecured area can put both your pup and others in danger. No matter how well-trained your dog may be, they could still be spooked by something or decide to chase after a squirrel. Always keep your dog on a leash when you’re out and about, unless you’re in a designated off-leash area, like a dog park.
- Neglect Their Grooming Needs
Grooming is more than just keeping your dog looking good – it’s essential for their overall health and well-being. Neglecting to brush your dog’s coat can lead to matting, skin irritation, and even infection. Don’t forget to trim their nails regularly as well as taking the time to clean their ears and brush their teeth on a regular basis too. A well-groomed dog is a happy and healthy dog!
- Overfeed or Under-exercise
A healthy diet and regular exercise are crucial for your dog’s overall health. Overfeeding or not providing enough physical activity can lead to obesity and related health issues, such as diabetes and heart disease. Make sure you’re feeding your dog the appropriate amount of food for their size, age, and activity level, and provide plenty of opportunities for play and exercise.
- Ignore Their Body Language
Dogs communicate with us primarily through their body language. Ignoring the signs they’re giving you – such as tail wagging, growling, or cowering – can lead to misunderstandings and even dangerous situations. Take the time to learn about canine body language so you can better understand what your dog is trying to tell you and respond appropriately.
- Keep Them Cooped Up All Day
Dogs need mental stimulation just as much as they need physical exercise. Leaving your dog alone and bored for extended periods can lead to destructive behavior and even depression. Make sure you’re providing your pup with interactive toys, puzzles, and regular opportunities for social interaction to keep their minds sharp and engaged.
As you can see, being a responsible dog owner means more than just providing food, water, and shelter. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can help ensure your furry friend leads a happy, healthy, and well-adjusted life. Remember, a well-cared-for dog is a joy to have around, and the love and companionship you receive in return are well worth the effort. So, keep these tips in mind and enjoy the wonderful journey of pet parenting!
