Dogs often tolerate human behavior because they are loyal and easygoing. However, there may be some things that you or others do that your dog secretly hates.
1. LONG EYE CONTACT!
Staring at your dog for too long is a no, no – especially, with strange dogs! Eye contact between dogs is the way by which they set their roles and dominance within the pack. At often times, eye contact turns fatal – be it a dogfight for position or simply connoting aggression! Therefore, eye contact may confuse your dog! Although, they will tolerate you as an owner, do not practice it often! When it comes to strange dogs, remind yourself to avoid it altogether as you never know what kind of reaction you might trigger!
2. HUGGING YOUR DOG
Hugging is the best way for us humans to express love and gratitude in-between each other.
Many dogs do not enjoy hugs, especially from strangers. Placing your arms around a dog's neck or body may be perceived as a threat. Most dogs tolerate gentle hugs from trusted humans, but that doesn't mean they actually like them.
A better alternative is to let the dog cuddle on his own terms and pet him along the back and on the chest (especially if you don't know the dog well). Of course, some dogs do love to be hugged. It's important that you know your own dog and understand his limits. Pay attention to his body language to help you understand how he is feeling when you hug him. If he leans away, averts his eyes, yawns, licks his lips, has a worried look, or shows other appeasement gestures, he's probably uncomfortable.
3. USING WORDS MORE THAN BODY LANGUAGE
Did you know dogs are the experts at reading our thoughts and feelings before we even organize and express them?
The best method of communicating with your dog is by adjusting your body language and posture before pronouncing a single word! Coordinate your words with your posture, otherwise, you may be sending mixed signals to your dog! Instead of understanding your command, you rather confuse the dog and make them act even worse than in the beginning!
Try practicing body language for a full day, by not speaking a word when communicating with your dog! See if they understand you better!
4. PETTING DOGS ON THE HEAD
Petting your dog's face or patting her on her head is another wrong way of showing affection towards them! Although most dogs do like it, it may seem natural, it is one form of interaction that brings uncomfortable feelings in dogs! Dogs will be dogs, they are not babies – keep in mind!
5. NO SNIFFING AND EXPLORING ON WALKS(outing).
Dogs like going on walks for more than just the exercise. Taking a walk outdoors gives your dog a chance to explore the world. Your dog explores the world primarily through scent, then with his other senses (whereas most humans explore the world first through sight). Rushing your dog through a walk without allowing him to stop and sniff (and mark) is unkind. If you think about it, it's like someone dragging you by the arm through your favorite shop without allowing you to stop and look at anything. If it happens all the time, that would be pretty frustrating, wouldn't it? So next time you walk your dog, give him plenty of time to explore his environment.
6. Lack of Routine and Rules
Most dogs may not seem to like it, but dogs needs rules. If your dog is acting out, it's probably because you have not taught him the rules. Training is an important part of providing structure in your dog's life. A routine is important because your dog has an internal clock. Try to feed your dog at the same time each day. Establish an exercise routine too if possible. After a few days of structured rules and routine, you will probably notice that your dog is happier. Routines and rules make your dog's world more predictable and can actually boost his confidence.
7. DRESSING THEM UP
Most dogs will tolerate outfits or costumes, but many don't enjoy them. Get to know your dog before you force him into a bunny costume! Some dogs are fine with simple clothing items like shirts, but loathe wearing things on their heads or feet. How important is it that you dress up your dog anyway? If your dog needs protection from the cold, start with small, lightweight items and associate them with treats or other rewards. Work your way up to sweaters, jackets, and booties. Watch your dog's body language to determine when he has had enough.
8. HARD/STRONG FRANGRANCES
Did you know your dog's sense of smell is about 10,000 to 100,000 times more sensitive than yours?
In general, dogs enjoy taking in all types of scents and odors. However, strong fragrances and chemicals can bother dogs and even irritate their noses.
As a rule, it's best to avoid directly spraying your dog with anything. If your dog needs a medical spray applied, avoid his face (better yet, spray the medication on a cloth and apply it to him that way). When you use your own products (perfume, hairspray, air fresheners, cleaners, etc.) do so away from your dog and make sure the product is not toxic.
9. KEEPING A TIGHT LEASH
By keeping a tight leash on a dog, you’re raising the level of stress, frustration, and excitement for your dog.
This is why it is so important to teach a dog how to walk on a slack leash.
An amazing amount of energy is transferred between you and your dog through that little strip of canvas or leather. By keeping a loose leash, you’re letting your dog know that everything is fine and dandy, that there’s no reason to be worried or tense. With a slack leash you’re saying to your dog that you are calm and have everything under control so your dog is free to be calm as well. On the other hand, by keeping a tight leash you’re sending a message to your dog that you’re tense, nervous, on alert, ready to fight or fly, and your dog responds in kind. Just as you don’t like your dog pulling you around, it doesn’t feel good to your dog to constantly be pulled and thus cued to be on alert. They’re also well-aware that they can’t get away from you even if they think they need to. A dog that walks on a tight leash is more apt to bark or be reactive in even the most mild of social situations. But a dog that can walk on a slack leash is more likely to be calm. This is a difficult thing to master, and something the majority of dog owners can commiserate about, but it is so important to having pleasant walks with a relaxed dog.
10. TENSE AND BORED MOOD
We never enjoy been Tensed or Bored – dogs likewise! If you notice your dog seeming bored or tense, just make sure you check with yourself first as your dog is mostly mirroring your feelings! Having busy schedules, when you're supposed to relax. Spend as much time as possible with your dog when you're free at home. Take the time to bond with your dog. Set a daily routine, providing plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. If you travel frequently, find a trusted pet sitter with whom your dog is comfortable. If you travel constantly, consider whether or not it's fair to even have a dog.
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