Dogs are our best friends, but sometimes we make the relationship a confusing and stressful one.
We may have the best of intentions but there are some things humans regularly do that annoy dogs to no end.
Here are 5 things that might be straining your relationship with your best friend.
Hugging
Hugging may seem like the ultimate declaration of affection to us humans but to dogs, it’s the height of stress.
Canines didn’t evolve the same way us humans did. They don’t have arms and they certainly don’t hug. The closest they come is placing their foreleg or paw on the back of another dog. However, far from friendliness, this action is considered an act of dominance.
No matter how humans view the action, dogs are built to think that hugging them is you asserting your dominance.
A lot of dogs tolerate our strange human penchant for hugging with grace, particularly if they’re a family pet who’s become accustomed to it. But tolerance shouldn’t be confused with enjoyment. Dogs would much rather you curb the instinct to hug.
Being Left Alone
Dogs are social creatures just as humans are – that’s why our species’ get along so well. You and your family are your dog’s pack members and so being around you is crucial to your dog’s wellbeing.
A dog left alone for ten or more hours per day is a very unhappy canine. Such isolation is also a breeding ground for a number of psychological and behavioral issues. Separation anxiety, destructive behavior, and excessive barking are all likely outcomes of a lonely dog.
Yelling
Yelling can and does annoy dogs. Being yelled at is never fun but it can be even worse for your dog who often doesn’t understand what’s upset you. As a training technique, it does very little and can actively inhibit your dog’s learning.
Instead of yelling, the best way to discourage unwanted behaviors is by redirecting your dog towards a positive behavior. This is called reward-based training and is not only more effective than yelling or punishment, it also keeps your dog from becoming scared, confused, or agitated.
Staring
Extended eye-contact or staring is the quickest way to annoy dogs. This is because, to them, staring means you’re challenging them. It’s particularly bad practice when approaching a strange dog.
If you want to greet a new dog in a way that’s comfortable for everyone, approach them with your body angled so your shoulders aren’t squared forward. Ensure your eyes are slightly averted and not looking them in the eyes. Speaking in a calm, gentle voice will also help tell them that you mean them no harm.
Lack of Rules
Dogs thrive when they have clear boundaries and expectations. This is why well-trained dogs are often the happiest dogs – they have clear rules they’re expected to follow and they love your approval for doing the right thing.
The best thing you can do for your dog is set clear rules and follow them consistently. Dogs don’t understand exceptions. Allowing them on the couch only when guests aren’t around, for instance, will just confuse and stress your dog.
Humans Accidentally Annoy Dogs All the Time
The key to a good dog-owner relationship is doing your best to correct bad behavior. Dogs are some of the best pets in the world. By taking heed of these five doggie annoyances, you can ensure you’re giving as much to the friendship as they are.
Looking to extend your fur family? Check out why you should get your next pet from a shelter.