Dogs have had long noticeable stands in our lives as loyal companions, faithful friends and defenders. Besides that, they are endless fountain of joy. Dogs are one of the most vital animals in our community and yet so many myths surround them. These misconceptions get in the way of understanding what dogs are, and how they behave. In this post, we hop on a quest to unveil the dog myths. According to scientific discovery, experience in real life and a profound respect for the connection we share with dogs, together we strive to dispel some of those age-old myths that continue to echo through history. It is time to cut through the fact from fiction and start understanding some true facts about our furry friends.
Most Common Dog Myths:
Dogs are Color Blind:
One of the oldest, best known myths is that dogs are color blind. We have all frequently listened to that dogs could just see black and white. Dogs, in fact are not colorblind but do have a limited sense of color perception compared to humans. There is a lot of scientific evidence proving that dogs can see some colors, notably the ones in blue and yellow range.
Dog Chicken Bones Myth:
Another common myth is that dog can safely eat chicken bones. However, eating chicken bones can be very dangerous. This can cause chocking and blockages in the digestive tract, stomach or intestines which could require immediate surgery. We should always give them safer and specially designed chews instead of chicken bones.
Grapes and Dogs Myth:
Many people say that feeding grapes to the dogs is harmless. But in reality, gapes and raisins are poisonous to dogs. Eating grapes or raisins can be toxic to dogs leading kidney injury. Some dogs can eat grapes without suffering any illness but in most cases it is harmful for dogs.
Nanny Dog Myth:
This myth suggests that pit bulls are inherently suited for protect and watch over children. That is why often pit bulls are called as nanny dogs. Actually, some dogs may be loving and gentle with children, but there is no scientific evidence that any specific dog breeds are inherently suited for this role.
Littermate Syndrome Dogs Myth:
Littermate syndrome dog myth suggests that raising two puppies from the same litter causes behavioral problems including excessive bonding with each other, separation stress and anxiety, and difficulty in socializing with other dogs and humans. In reality, raising two puppies from the same litter is normal and the puppies grow just fine. Very rarely, if it occurs with proper care, training, and socialization it can be cured.
Shaving Double Coated Dogs Myth:
Shaving double coated dogs in summer keeps them cooler is misleading. Double coated dogs like Huskies and Golden Retrievers have two layers of fur- a soft undercoat and a coarse outer coat. These protective layers work as isolation and keep the dogs cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Shaving the coat can actually harm these dogs.
Dog Myths – You Can’t Teach an Old Dog New Tricks:
This myth says that you cannot teach old dog new tricks. Yet in fact, dogs of any age can learn new things with patience, consistency and positive reinforcement. Dogs can learn and change their behavior no matter how old they are. When you train your dogs with love, dedication and determination, your dog will be able to pick up new tricks and many other things although they are at a very old age.
More Dog Myths and Misconceptions:
A Wagging Tail Means a Friendly Dog:
A wagging tail is seen as the sign of a friendly canine. But that is not exactly correct. Know that a wagging tail can signal anything from happiness to anxiety. When excited, anxious and worried or even violent dogs can wag their tails. It is still important to take into consideration other body language sign and context when interpreting a dog’s true feelings.
Dog Ages Seven Years for Each Human Year:
Many of us have grown up accepting the misconception that dogs age seven years for one human year. Dogs definitely age faster than people, but their rate of aging is not constant throughout their lives. Nor does it mean that all their life they age seven years to one human year. For example, a dog ages the equivalent of about 15 human years in just his first year and after that aging process slows down immensely.
Dogs Eat Grass When They Are Sick:
Ever seen a dog munching out on grass? It’s true, dogs occasionally eat grass. There are a lot of people who think that dogs only eat grass when they sick. Though some dogs will eat grass and in turn vomit to make their stomach feel better, others simply chow down the green stuff because they like how it tastes or for instinctual needs.
A Warm Dry Nose Means a Sick Dog:
One of the more common things that people believe is their dogs are ill with one well-known indicator becoming warm and dry noses. Contrary to popular belief, a warm and dry nose does not indicate that your dog is necessarily sick. A dog’s nose can change temperature and moisture many times throughout the day depending on the environment. As a result of the above fact, only symptoms or behavioral clues are used to assess whether your dog is healthy or not.
All Dogs Love Hugs and Kisses:
A lot of people assume that all dogs enjoy the affectionate squeeze and kisses. Not all dogs are the hugging and kissing type! Certain dogs might be being made uncomfortable or could even feel threatened by such gestures. In particular, they may feel threatened when strangers attempt to love them, or the pet is in unknown conditions. Always respect the boundaries of a dog and be mindful about signs of stress.
By busting the following most widespread dog myths and misconceptions, we strive to get a better understanding and respect for our four-legged friends. It is always worth keeping in your mind that each dog has its own peculiarity and, it better needs to address with love, respect and care considering their individuality.
