I ran across a great article written by a smart-cookie veterinarian. You can see the whole article here. Here are the 10 myths – find any you believed before you read the article? Leave a comment and let me know which myth surprised you the most.
Myth #1: Puppies shouldn't go to puppy classes until they've received all their vaccinations.
Myth #2: Crazy owners have crazy pets.
Myth #3: My dog is fearful/aggressive/shy because she was abused as a puppy.
Myth #4: This new medication will treat your pet's [insert behavior problem here].
Myth #5: Dogs who are aggressive are dominant. (No matter what any Whisperer says!)
Myth #6: My dog knows he's been bad – see how guilty he looks?
Myth #7: If you use treats to train your dog, they'll always be needed for your dog to comply.
Myth #8: Dogs chase their tails because they're bored.
Myth #9: Any trainer can handle all behavior problems.
Myth #10: I don't have time for behavior cases. (This one is specifically meant for veterinarians.)
If you were surprised that any of these were myths, you're probably not the only one. Print the article out and take it to your vet.
Hey why’d you stop at 10! 😉
How about:
11. Dogs do destructive things because they’re angry at their owners
12. Comforting your dog when it is afraid is only telling them that they are right to be afraid.
13. All dogs that growl when people or other dog approach their owners are trying to ‘protect’ them.
14. Dog behavior is like wolf behavior.
I think you have a book here: 1001 Myths About Dog Behavior
You know, you’re right! We probably could come up with 1001 myths! The ones you added are spot on, as well. 🙂
Just discovered your great blog, I hope you don’t mind if I add it to my blog’s list of favorite sites.
Thank you so much for posting this article. I work as a veterinary assistant and a professional dog trainer. Recently I have been reprimanded by the veterinarians for focusing too much on behavior for dog owners that bring their dogs in for a check up. I am going to print this article out for them to read.