Dog parents are some of the most lovable, thoughtful and caring people in the world; hence, there are still times that they unknowingly commit mistakes in parenting their pet dogs. This might confuse the dogs and would make them misbehave. It might also affect their relationship with them.
Barkpost and Modern Dog share the following dog parenting missteps that dog parents unintentionally make with their pet dogs. And yes, these are the things you should avoid.
1. Looking into your dog's eyes
Never stare into the eyes of a dog because staring at him is like a challenge. Do not look at his eyes especially if he is aggressive or seems worried and provoking. Certainly, you will regret what will happen next.
2. Letting him jump around
Sometimes you tell your pup to jump around. Do not permit your dog to jump around especially if you have a guest. Your guest might be intimidated or scared since he doesn't know your dog yet.
3. Hugging your dog tightly
A dog may be provoked if you tightly hug him. He may bite you because a dog is annoyed when he is tightly hugged. You must gently pet your dog to avoid provocation.
4. Yelling at your pup
Do not yell at your dog. The dog will think that you are angry with him. You must gently speak with your dog in a calm voice such as "Let's play!" or "Good job."
5. Leaving your dog for a longer time
A dog must not be left alone in a yard or home for 10 or more hours. He might develop psychological and behavioral issues such as excessive barking, anxiety, destructive behaviors or digging. Your dog wants you to spend time with him. You must play with him from time to time or walk with him in your yard or at the park.
6. Interrupting your dog's sleep
Humans get angry when you interrupt their sleep; hence, if you touch a dog while he is sleeping, he might be scared. If you want to wake your pup, do it slowly and gently.
7. Hitting your pup and putting him in a kennel as punishment
Spanking or kicking your dog may harm your relationship with him; more so, you mess it up with him when you put him in the kennel a punishment.
"When you hit a dog, you teach him to fear you, break his trust and you weaken his confidence. Insecure dogs are the ones who are more likely to lash out in an aggressive display," Victoria Stilwell, the author of "It's Me or the Dog" said.
8. Making aggressive greetings
Most people greet a dog by staring, talking in the bizarre baby talk, crouching and stretching their hands. These can all threaten the dog. These types of greetings annoy the dog and he might misbehave, bite you or bark at you loudly.
To greet a strange dog, greet the dog owner first. The dog will then sniff you and be at ease with you. If the dog is at ease already, you can reach down to him and touch his head or pet him.
9. Changing your dog's routine
A dog's routine includes eating, walking and having playtime. He depends much on his routine and instills such set of activities in his brain on what will happen every day.
On the other hand, if you suddenly make changes in his routines such as changing his dinner time, this might stress him -- resulting in having behavioral problems. It is advisable that you stick to the same diet at the same time and with the same usual activities.
