Myth Versus Fact
Published July 17, 2020
Separating fact from fiction can be difficult in the dog world. There is so much information being passed around so how do we know what is true and what is not? Here we are going to debunk some of the most common dog myths:
Myth #1. Dog’s only can see in black and white. That is false. Dogs do see color, but it is a much more faded version than we see. Think of it as seeing only pastel colors with a focus on blues and greens. When searching for toys try to get vibrant colors!
Myth #2. A cold wet nose means your dog is healthy… also false. A wet nose is normal for your dog to have but it is not abnormal for your dog's nose to be dry. Each dog is different, so take into consideration other body language and behaviors when trying to determine if your dog is sick.
Myth #3. A dog eating grass means they are sick. This is half true! Some dogs may eat grass when they are not feeling well. However, some dogs eat grass for other reasons such as boredom, displacement, or fun! As long as your grass has not been treated with chemicals and/or they are not making themselves throw up from eating too much this is normally an “okay” behavior.
Myth #4. A wagging tail is a happy tail. Not true. Just because your dog's tail is wagging does not mean they are happy. Dog’s body language can vary depending on what they are feeling. A wagging tail means the dog is aroused, whether it is excitement or fear, so consider all factors when determining a dog’s feelings.
Myth #1. Dog’s only can see in black and white. That is false. Dogs do see color, but it is a much more faded version than we see. Think of it as seeing only pastel colors with a focus on blues and greens. When searching for toys try to get vibrant colors!
Myth #2. A cold wet nose means your dog is healthy… also false. A wet nose is normal for your dog to have but it is not abnormal for your dog's nose to be dry. Each dog is different, so take into consideration other body language and behaviors when trying to determine if your dog is sick.
Myth #3. A dog eating grass means they are sick. This is half true! Some dogs may eat grass when they are not feeling well. However, some dogs eat grass for other reasons such as boredom, displacement, or fun! As long as your grass has not been treated with chemicals and/or they are not making themselves throw up from eating too much this is normally an “okay” behavior.
Myth #4. A wagging tail is a happy tail. Not true. Just because your dog's tail is wagging does not mean they are happy. Dog’s body language can vary depending on what they are feeling. A wagging tail means the dog is aroused, whether it is excitement or fear, so consider all factors when determining a dog’s feelings.
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Myth #5. You cannot teach an old dog new tricks. Not true. Certain tricks and behaviors may take more time with a dog who is older however they can definitely be taught to any dog at any age! It will just take some love and practice.
Myth #6. The “Alpha” role. The thought you need to be alpha in your dog's life or your dog is an “alpha” dog is not true. This used to be a common theme among training and dog talk however it is extremely flawed. This way of thinking came from the notion that dogs are just like their wild wolf counterparts which is not correct. Recent research has brought to light more positive proactive ways of training and interacting with your dog that does not revolve around outdated alpha/dominance theory.
Myth #6. The “Alpha” role. The thought you need to be alpha in your dog's life or your dog is an “alpha” dog is not true. This used to be a common theme among training and dog talk however it is extremely flawed. This way of thinking came from the notion that dogs are just like their wild wolf counterparts which is not correct. Recent research has brought to light more positive proactive ways of training and interacting with your dog that does not revolve around outdated alpha/dominance theory.
By Michael's Barkery Blogger: Courtney Larrier
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