Having a canine in your home is one of life’s greatest joys. Yet sometimes, without even realizing it, we can make some common dog mistakes that might have serious consequences for our beloved pets!
We all know that, sometimes, accidents can’t be avoided. Well, the same can be said for our canine companions. But understanding the hazards they’re exposed to can make their lives much safer. Dogs rely on us for everything, from exercise to food to their overall health, though sometimes, what we think is harmless can be hazardous.
There are small, seemingly innocent habits that we make that could be causing long-term damage to your beloved pooch, and you could be shortening your dog’s lifespan without knowing it. Whether accidentally exposing them to hidden dangers or neglecting an important routine, these errors can add up fast.
So, to keep your furry pal healthy and happy for many years to come, it’s time to correct these dangerous errors NOW. Experts and vets warn against these 11 common dog mistakes, and if you’re guilty of even one, now is the time to make a change!
Common dog mistake: Forgetting to provide fresh water leads to dangerous levels of dehydration
Canines need constant access to fresh water, but many owners unknowingly put their pets at risk by not refilling bowls frequently. Dirty or stale water can lead to bacteria growth, causing infections or stomach issues.
Even mild dehydration can result in dry gums, lethargy, and overheating, which are all signs that often go overlooked until the situation heightens. Just remember that leaving water out isn’t always enough, especially if your pooch lives in a warm climate or is highly active.
They might need more than usual on hot summer days, and their bowl should be checked numerous times daily. As noted by veterinary experts, chronic dehydration can contribute to urinary tract infections and kidney issues, both of which can become life-threatening if untreated.
Think about a common dog mistake like this: If you wouldn’t drink from a stale water bowl, neither should your pup.
Common dog mistake: Allowing obesity to take hold leads to a shorter lifespan
All those extra pounds do more than slow a pup down. They shorten their lifespan. Carrying excess weight around strains the joints, heart, and internal organs, making your pooch more vulnerable to diseases like arthritis and diabetes. Many dog owners don’t even realize their pet is overweight because gradual weight gain can go overlooked.
Portion control is the important thing here, and feeding guidelines on food bags are oftentimes misleading. That’s why cutting out excessive treats, measuring meals, and ensuring daily exercise can prevent obesity before it even begins. Once the weight loads on, it’s much harder to eliminate, so prevention is always the best way to go.
Common dog mistake: Keeping dangerous items within reach puts your pup in harm’s way
We all know that dogs are naturally curious. If they find something interesting, they’re likely to swallow it or, at the very least, chew on it. Things like cleaning supplies, medications, and even everyday foods can be fatal if ingested, yet many pet owners leave these items lying around within easy reach.
Certain everyday household products, like edibles or antifreeze, can cause rapid poisoning, leading to organ failure or seizures. Even seemingly harmless things can become threats. Socks, small toys, or rawhide chews can get stuck in a canine’s throat, causing intestinal blockages or choking.
The American Kennel Club says that many emergency vet visits are usually from ingesting foreign objects or accidental poisoning. That’s why to avoid this common dog mistake, keeping harmful objects locked away and supervising your pooch during playtime can prevent tragic accidents before they even happen.
Common dog mistake: Skipping deworming and vaccinations leads to fatal consequences
Vaccines aren’t something that’s optional. Yet some dog owners delay or ignore them entirely, thinking that since their pup lives indoors, it’s safe. Well, you should know that skipping vaccinations leaves your beloved pet vulnerable to various diseases, such as rabies and parvovirus, both of which can lead to disastrous consequences.
Deworming is just as vital because internal parasites can slowly drain your dog’s health, leading to weight loss, malnutrition, and, in extreme cases, organ failure. According to vets, there are particular parasites that can even be transmitted to people, putting your entire household at risk.
So, besides making a common dog mistake, monthly preventative treatments can save your dog’s life and prevent pricey vet bills in the future. It’s not just about keeping them safe, but also about ensuring they live healthy lives without silent threats slowly weakening them from the inside.
Common dog mistake: Ignoring dental health leads to organ damage and painful infections
Bad breath isn’t just gross. It’s often a telltale sign of something more serious. Bad dental hygiene can result in gum disease, which doesn’t just involve the mouth but can also lead to systemic infections that harm the liver, heart, and kidneys.
The bacteria caused by inflamed gums can get into the bloodstream, creating health issues far beyond what many pet owners even realize. That’s why brushing your pup’s teeth regularly or providing dental chews can help stop plaque buildup and unbearable tooth decay.
As noted by vets, untreated dental disease can significantly shorten your canine’s lifespan. And when left unchecked, it can cause difficulty eating, abscesses, and chronic pain. But regular brushing and vet checkups can prevent unnecessary suffering and keep your pooch’s smile healthy.
Common dog mistake: Ignoring daily exercise weakens your dog’s mind and body
Dogs need to move around. If they don’t get enough exercise, they break down mentally and physically. The assumption that backyard access is enough is a harmful one. Without structured activities and daily walks, your pup is at risk of joint stiffness, obesity, and even heart disease.
The American Kennel Club says that exercise isn’t just about burning off all their pent-up energy. It curbs destructive behaviors, reduces stress, and strengthens the relationship between you and your furry pal. A simple walk isn’t always enough, either. Try to engage them with agility training, fetch, or interactive play to keep their body strong and their mind alert.
Common dog mistake: Allowing them to eat sharp objects
Since canines are curious animals who learn from their environment, leaving sharp objects around the house can cause serious injuries to your furry pal. Things like screws and nails are small enough to go unseen, and shards of bone can come from giving them pieces of chicken meat.
These sharp things can cause blockages inside their body or puncture vital organs, which can lead to internal bleeding in your pup. So here’s the immediate action you can take: Sweeping or vacuuming around the house often can help clear these objects. You should also stop giving them pieces of meat with the bone still on.
If your dog ingests something sharp, be sure to take them to the vet immediately because these things need to be removed surgically in many cases.
Common dog mistake: Underestimating the importance of mental stimulation causes anxiety and stress
A bored canine can get destructive, and many pet owners fail to provide the right amount of mental stimulation. Digging, chewing, and even aggression can originate from a lack of brain engagement. If your pup only gets physical exercise but nothing to challenge their intellect, behavioral issues will ultimately surface.
According to canine experts, puzzle feeders, interactive toys, and regular training sessions are fundamental for a well-rounded dog. Without them, they can develop depression, anxiety, and even compulsive behaviors. A tired mind is just as critical as an exhausted body, and a little effort on your end can prevent any serious long-term problems.
Common dog mistake: Misreading your dog’s body language causes unnecessary stress
Dogs are always trying to communicate with us, but many pet owners don’t even know to look for their signals. And misunderstanding their cues altogether can lead to unnecessary stress, fear, or even aggression. A wagging tail doesn’t always mean pleasure, and avoiding eye contact isn’t necessarily guilt. In fact, it’s usually a sign of submission.
Failing to identify stress signals, such as yawning, lip licking, or pinned-back ears, can result in unsettling situations that could have been easily avoided. Ignoring these signals can break the trust between you and your beloved pooch and make your canine feel unsafe. Reading their body language strengthens your bond and prevents unwanted behavioral problems.
When a pup growls, they’re not being disobedient but expressing discomfort. Disciplining them for warning you only teaches them to stay quiet, increasing the risk of future sudden aggression. Understanding their language allows you to respond the right way, and it’ll ensure they feel safe being in your care.
Common dog mistake: Intense training methods destroy trust and create behavioral issues
Some dog owners believe in dominating their dogs through harsh punishments, believing it will result in better obedience. The truth is, though, that fear-based training can easily break a canine’s spirit, leading to distrust, anxiety, and unpredictable behavior.
Hitting, yelling, or using devices like shock collars might seem to work in the short term, but they develop long-term damage that’s hard to undo. Positive reinforcement is way more effective and builds a strong bond between you and your dog based on trust instead of intimidation.
Rewarding your fluff ball’s good behavior rather than punishing the bad ones makes canines more eager to learn and less likely to form fear-based reactions and you’ll avoid this common dog mistake.
According to canine experts, punishment-based training can increase stress hormones and lead to aggressive inclinations. The more you motivate and guide your pup, the more they’ll want to listen. And this won’t be out of fear, but because they trust you.
Common dog mistake: Inconsistent training confuses your dog and weakens their ability to learn
A canine thrives on clear communication and having a consistent routine. So, irregular training can leave them feeling frustrated and lost. If one day they’re allowed on the bed and the next they’re reprimanded for it, they won’t understand what’s expected of them.
Switching commands or allowing poor behavior “sometimes” only confuses them, making training far more complicated than it needs to be. Canines don’t instinctively know what we want. They heavily rely on consistency and repetition to understand rules. According to dog behavioral experts, pups trained with clear, consistent strategies learn faster and maintain their training longer.
If you want a well-behaved furry companion, make sure you set clear rules and stick to them. Patience, clarity, and positive reinforcement will always deliver better results than inconsistency and frustration. Your beloved pooch depends on you for their overall well-being, and the routines you build now will determine their health in their later years.
Every common dog mistake on this list is avoidable with the right knowledge and effort on your part. Small changes, like reading their body language better, refreshing their water bowl more often, or setting consistent rules, can add many more years to their life.
Awareness is the first step, but action is what really matters. And remember that it’s never too late to correct course and give your pup the happy, long, and healthy life they deserve.
Bonus: The 7 best dog foods this year, ranked by vets
Best Budget Dog Food
Dog Chow Complete Adult with Real Chicken Dry Dog Food
If you’re looking for a more affordable option for your adult dog, veterinarians recommend this reasonably priced formula from Dog Chow. This very digestible option from Dog Chow includes 23 minerals and vitamins to support your dog’s overall health without adding fillers or artificial flavors.
All in all, it’s a complete, budget-friendly, balanced dry dog food for adult dogs. The antioxidants in the food help with brain health and immune function. The ingredient list on the bag might not seem as appealing as those of premium brands, but “chicken byproduct” isn’t the deal-breaker that some pet food commercials might lead you to believe, according to experts.
“Byproducts” are simply parts of the animal that people in the US don’t commonly consume, such as skin and organs. So remember that if the label includes things like a byproduct, that’s not something bad or a sign that the food isn’t nutritious. Animal byproducts are still nutritious, safe, and wonderful pet protein sources.
Best for Healthy Weight
Purina ONE +Plus Adult High-Protein Healthy Weight Formula
If you’re trying to keep your dog on a weight management plan, a veterinary panel has recommended this formula from Purina. Featuring extra protein, this choice from Purina is also reinforced with natural sources of glucosamine to support healthier joints.
A veterinarian said that he likes that this is an inexpensive diet for adult dogs that helps promote lean muscle mass, healthy weight, and joint health. It’s also favored by picky eaters with a mix of tender, chewy morsels and crunchy kibble.
And pups tend to like this food because of the softer pieces to chew on. It also has omega-6s, which are excellent for the skin and coat. It’s essential to note that this diet is developed for weight management, not weight loss. The “healthy weight” formulation might give some pet owners the idea that they can overfeed their pup on this diet, which could lead to weight gain.
Best for: Your dog’s dental health
Eukanuba Adult Medium Breed
A vet panel has approved that this is the best adult dog food for dental health. This formula contains Eukanuba’s 3D DentaDefense, which is proven to decrease tartar due to its crunchy texture, polyphosphate, and S-shaped dog kibble that helps to eliminate plaque. This brand of dog food is also listed on the Veterinary Oral Health Council’s approved list of chow.
One vet has stated, “I like that it has a special kibble formulation to promote dental health and prevent tartar buildup.” Featuring high-quality chicken as its first ingredient, it also includes supplements developed to support digestive and joint health.
Experts say that this food contains DHA and vitamin E for brain function, glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate for joint health, nutrients to support an active lifestyle, and a prebiotic blend for digestion. Prebiotics are special kinds of fiber that nurture the billions of microorganisms in your canine’s digestive tract, known as the gut microbiome.
A healthy microbiome supports their overall digestive health and the immune system. This dog food is specially formulated for medium adult dogs, making it suitable for dogs that are more than 12 months old and weigh between 24 and 54 pounds.
So what do you think? Are you guilty of making these common dog mistakes? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below.
And if you like this article, you’ll also want to check out: 16 Common Dog Myths You Think Are True
