Top 10 Things Humans Do That Dogs Hate
Relationships between humans and dogs can be complex. If you don’t take the time to adjust your behavior when owning a dog, then you could find that your bond is never able to reach its full potential. A loving and compassionate relationship with your dog can be hugely rewarding, and you can achieve this largely by cutting out many of the behaviors that make dogs anxious, confused, fearful, and otherwise distressed.
Whether you’re planning to bring a dog into your family soon, or even if you’re a long time dog owner, you can benefit by learning about these top 10 things humans do that dogs hate.
1: Exposing Your Dog to Loud and Sudden Noises
Loud and sudden noises will spook most dogs. Fireworks, loud music, car horns, and even abrupt and loud conversation can be stressful for dogs. Dogs shouldn’t be reprimanded when they howl or whimper due to loud noises. Instead, try comforting your dog instead.
Try to expose your dog gradually to the environment where you live, and be mindful of sounds you make that could distress your dog. During fireworks, loud parties, or other events, keep your dog in a safe and quiet place where they will feel comfortable.
2: Leaving Your Dog Alone for Long Periods of Time
Dogs are naturally social animals and they hate it when you leave them alone. Separation anxiety is common in dogs, so it’s important that you don’t leave yours alone for extended periods. Labradors and Retrievers often suffer from separation anxiety more than other dogs.
3: Excessive Hugging, Particularly From Strangers
You might have a sudden urge to embrace your dog as you would a close loved one or child. While some dogs can develop a tolerance for this type of behavior, it actually causes significant stress in the majority of cases. Hugging can be seen as an invasion of personal space, and should be minimized unless you are sure your dog is comfortable.
The key is to ensure that your dog doesn’t feel restrained.
4: Rushing Your Dog on Walks
When walking your dog, it’s important that you give them time to sniff, explore, and absorb their surroundings. Many owners rush dogs during walks, which can make the animal feel anxious and annoyed. Allow your dog to take their time so that they can gain all of the physical and psychological health benefits of a walk outside.
5: Giving Complex Commands Without Body Language
Although dogs can be trained to learn their names and certain verbal commands, it’s important to remember that they simply don’t understand most of what you say. Complex commands and language will confuse your dog. Keep things simple and train key words rather than entire phrases, and reinforce these words with strong body language and gestures.
6: Exposing Your Dog to Strong Scents
A dog’s sense of smell can be over 10,000x more sensitive than your own. It should come as no surprise that dogs don’t like to be exposed to strong scents, particularly perfumes, detergents, and household cleaners and chemicals. When interacting with your dog, avoid wearing perfume and scented deodorants. When you’re cleaning around the house, keep your dog somewhere safe where they can breathe free.
7: Dressing Your Dog Up
You might think it cute to dress your dog up in clothes made for animals. While it might make for a great photo opportunity, the reality is that dogs don’t like to be dressed in anything other than their natural coat. Clothes feel restrictive and can cause overheating and general discomfort. Some materials may even agitate your dog through allergic reactions.
8: Not Maintaining a Routine
Dogs need routine and structure, and hate when they don’t have it. Providing an environment and routine that is familiar will help to build confidence and trust. Your dog will be more comfortable and having a routine can even help with training. Keep walks, feeding time, and play/training time on a regular schedule.
9: Forcing Socialization with Other Dogs
Most dogs do love socialization, but, like humans, this should be natural and on their own terms. When bringing two dogs together, introduce them gradually and in a controlled environment. Never force an interaction if either dog is visibly aggressive, afraid, or shy.
10: Yelling At or Intimidating Your Dog
Dogs do need boundaries and structure, but there is a line to be drawn in terms of scolding and discouraging bad behavior. You should never yell at your dog. The noise and confrontation is a sign of aggression and it can make your dog fearful and submissive. In some cases, aggressive yelling and frequent scolding could lead to aggressive behaviors in your dog.
When you know what your dog dislikes, you’ll be able to provide a comfortable environment and both of you will better enjoy the precious times that you spend together.
DR Team