Even caring owners sometimes cause discomfort to their dogs. There are simply some actions that pets don't like, but they can't say so and tolerate them because they love their owner. In this article, we'll explain what you shouldn't do to avoid causing discomfort to your pet.
Hugging dogs
Tactile contact is incredibly important to humans. Touch and hugs express love, joy, and support. It's so wonderful to hug your dog and feel their shaggy fur under your fingers. But dogs perceive these interactions very differently than humans.
In nature, dominance among animals is established through physical contact. A stranger's paws on his back indicate that the dog accepts the other dog's leadership, is weaker, and is willing to submit.
Pay attention to how your dog behaves when you hug him: does he avert his eyes, lower his head, lick his lips frequently, or flatten his ears. If these signs are present, your dog is uncomfortable. He's tolerating your displays of affection. Find another way to express your feelings.
At the same time, the dog can quite calmly accept hugs from another family member - this could be a child or a person who has authority in the eyes of the dog, the real owner and “leader” of the pack.
Hurry on walks
For a dog owner, walking is a daily chore to meet their pet's physiological needs. And many people want to keep the walk to a minimum. But for a dog stuck at home all day, a walk is an adventure.
Don't rush your dog; let him sniff bushes and paths. Vary your walk routes to allow him to explore new areas. Establish a routine: a short walk in the morning, and longer walks in the evening or on weekends.
To help your dog understand the nature of the walk, bring a small toy, a treat, or use a different leash on long walks. This way, on "forced" walks, your dog will be more focused and less distracted by games and sniffing. A proper walk makes your pet's life rich and interesting.
Scream
Dogs are good at understanding emotions expressed through vocal intonation. If your dog misbehaves, simply speak to it in a stern tone. Yelling at a dog is futile and pointless. It won't understand.
To scare with sharp sounds
Instincts tell them that loud noises are dangerous. Many dogs are afraid of vacuum cleaners and hair dryers, and they become timid when hearing fireworks or thunder. Some dogs even become aggressive.
If fear appears, calm the animal and distract it with a treat. Try to show it there's no danger. If you scare a dog with loud noises for fun, you'll end up with a nervous animal that reacts violently to any loud noise. The dog won't trust such an owner either. Respect your dog's authority—don't scare it.
Your dog is a member of the family. Treat it with love, but also respect its feelings. Consider what your dog likes and dislikes. Check how your pet reacts to hugs, shouting, and loud noises, and whether it gets enough freedom on walks.
