When you’re a dog parent, how do you know what information is true and what isn’t? It can be impossible, particularly when we can also be bombarded with advice from well-meaning loved ones – and it might not always be based in fact!
The reality is, there are an awful lot of misconceptions, and some of them are believed by many of us. Fortunately, however, experts like Amelia Steele – or Amelia the Dog Trainer – a professional dog trainer and behavioral consultant, are here to help us out.
In a recent Instagram post, she highlighted some common misconceptions from the dog training industry, and it’s a real eye-opener.
1. You shouldn’t pick up your small dog: “We’re always told not to pick up our dogs because it’ll make things way worse,” says Steele. “But if it’s your only option at preventing a reaction, or keeping your dog safe, there is no harm in it.”
She explains that it’s not something she’d do every time, and it’s best to have a management strategy in place, but that it’s fine as a last resort – and if you don’t have much experience with smaller dogs, don’t forget to take a look at these first time dog owner tips you’ll be grateful to know!
2. You shouldn’t let your dog walk in front or to the side: Your pup isn’t trying to be the ‘alpha’ or dominate you by walking in front – they might just have a faster walking pace.
“This is totally normal,” Steele explains, “And if it’s not causing you any problems, it’s not a problem!”
3. Your dog is reactive because they’re feeding off your energy: “Your dog has their own thoughts and feelings about the world and it’s not your fault if your dog has decided that they’re afraid of something or are frustrated,” Steele says.
“Yes, there are ways that we can change our behavior to help, but don’t blame it entirely on yourself,” she adds. “And, don’t feel like you are feeding your dog’s anxiety because it stresses you out.”
If you’d like to find out the truth about more things we’re often misled about, why not take a look at these six dog nutrition myths busted by a vet? And, if reactivity in dogs is something you’re particularly hoping to tackle, you might find the following article interesting: Owning a reactive dog is hard. Here's how I navigated the social challenges with my pooch.
