15 Common Dog Myths That Every Pet Owner Should Stop Believing
If you’ve ever believed that dogs only eat grass when they’re feeling sick, or that every dog year equals exactly seven human years, you’re not alone. These kinds of ideas have been around for decades. Some are based on outdated science, while others are simply passed along by well-meaning dog owners and become widely accepted. But here’s the thing—some dog myths can lead to confusion, and even affect how we care for our furry friends.
To help you be the best dog parent possible, we’re busting 15 of the most common myths about dogs. Whether you’re a first-time pet owner or have had dogs all your life, this guide will help you better understand your canine companion and improve their well-being.
1. Myth: A Wagging Tail Means a Happy Dog
Truth: A wagging tail doesn’t always mean a dog is happy. In fact, dogs wag their tails for many reasons, including nervousness, alertness, or even aggression. The key is to look at how the tail is wagging. A relaxed, slow wag with a low tail often means contentment. But a stiff, high wag—especially combined with raised ears and a stiff body—can indicate tension or even a warning. Always look at the entire body language, not just the tail.
2. Myth: Dogs Eat Grass Only When They’re Sick
Truth: This is a very common belief, but it’s not entirely true. While some dogs might eat grass when they have an upset stomach, most do it for other reasons. Some dogs eat grass because they’re bored, they like the texture, or it’s simply part of their natural behavior. If your dog occasionally munches on grass and seems otherwise healthy, it’s usually not a concern. However, if it becomes a frequent habit or is followed by vomiting, it’s a good idea to consult your vet.
3. Myth: One Dog Year Equals Seven Human Years
Truth: This “seven-year rule” is a big oversimplification. Dogs age differently based on their breed and size. Small dogs often live longer and age more slowly, while large breeds age faster and may have shorter lifespans. For example, a one-year-old dog might be roughly equivalent to a 15-year-old human, not seven. To better track your dog’s age, talk to your vet or use a breed-specific age calculator.
4. Myth: You Can’t Teach an Old Dog New Tricks
Truth: Age is just a number when it comes to learning! Older dogs are perfectly capable of picking up new skills. In fact, many older dogs are easier to train because they’re calmer and less distracted than puppies. With consistent training, patience, and positive reinforcement, your senior pup can learn new behaviors, commands, and even fun tricks.
5. Myth: Dogs Should Chew Bones for Healthy Teeth
Truth: While chewing can help keep a dog’s teeth clean, not all bones are safe. Cooked bones can easily splinter and cause choking or internal injuries. Even raw bones can be risky if not handled correctly. Instead of giving your dog a bone, try vet-approved dental chews or toys designed to clean teeth and promote oral health.
6. Myth: Dogs Feel Guilty When They Look “Ashamed”
Truth: That “guilty” look your dog gives when you scold them? It’s not guilt—it’s a reaction to your tone and body language. Dogs are experts at reading humans, and when you’re upset, they respond with submissive signals to avoid conflict. Unlike humans, dogs don’t reflect on past actions the same way we do. So instead of punishment, focus on teaching the behavior you want to see.
7. Myth: Dogs Should Be Bathed Weekly
Truth: Too many baths can actually harm your dog’s skin by stripping away natural oils. Most dogs only need a bath every 4 to 6 weeks, unless they’ve rolled in something stinky or have a skin condition. Always use a dog-specific shampoo, and talk to your vet if your dog has allergies or sensitive skin.
8. Myth: Dogs See Only in Black and White
Truth: Dogs don’t see the world like an old black-and-white movie. While they don’t see as many colors as humans, they can see shades of blue, yellow, and gray. Their color vision is similar to a person with red-green color blindness. So while that red toy may not stand out, your dog can still enjoy colorful environments.
9. Myth: Indoor Dogs Don’t Need Exercise
Truth: Whether your dog lives in a large backyard or a small apartment, all dogs need daily exercise. Regular walks, playtime, and mental stimulation are essential for your dog’s physical and emotional health. Even small or older dogs benefit from light activity like short walks, indoor games, and puzzle toys.
10. Myth: If a Dog’s Nose is Dry, It’s Sick
Truth: A dog’s nose can be wet, dry, warm, or cold—and still be perfectly healthy. Nose temperature and moisture can change throughout the day due to things like sleep, weather, or dehydration. While a dry nose isn’t automatically a concern, you should watch for other signs like lethargy, vomiting, or loss of appetite if you’re worried about your dog’s health.
11. Myth: Mixed-Breed Dogs Are Always Healthier
Truth: While mixed breeds often have greater genetic diversity, which can lower the risk of some inherited conditions, they’re not immune to health problems. Just like purebred dogs, they can develop allergies, joint issues, or dental problems. The key to a healthy dog is routine vet visits, a balanced diet, exercise, and regular care.
12. Myth: You Should Dominate Your Dog to Show Who’s Boss
Truth: The old “alpha dog” theory has been widely debunked. Dogs don’t need to be dominated—they need to be understood. Training methods based on fear or force can damage your relationship with your dog and lead to behavioral issues. Instead, use positive reinforcement, patience, and consistency to build trust and shape good habits.
13. Myth: Dogs Will Always Show When They’re in Pain
Truth: Dogs are very good at hiding pain, especially because showing weakness is a survival disadvantage in the wild. Subtle signs like limping, licking the same spot repeatedly, changes in appetite, or even just acting differently can all be clues that something’s wrong. If your dog seems “off,” don’t wait—get them checked out.
14. Myth: All Human Foods Are Bad for Dogs
Truth: While some human foods are dangerous (like chocolate, onions, grapes, and xylitol), others can be safe and even beneficial in moderation. Foods like carrots, green beans, pumpkin, blueberries, and plain cooked chicken can be healthy treats. Just be sure to read, research or check with your vet before sharing table scraps.
15. Myth: My Dog’s Behavior Problems Are Just Part of Its Personality
Truth: Most behavior issues have an underlying cause—like lack of exercise, boredom, anxiety, or even pain. With time, training, and sometimes medical care, many behavior problems can be corrected or improved. Don’t give up on your dog. Patience and support can lead to a big transformation.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the truth behind these common dog myths can make a big difference in how we care for our pets. When we let go of outdated ideas and focus on facts, we’re better equipped to support our dogs’ health, happiness, and overall well-being.
Remember, being a good dog parent isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about being open to learning and improving. Your pup depends on you, and the more you know, the better life you can give them.
If you found this post helpful, feel free to share it with other dog lovers. And be sure to check out our other guides on dog training, health tips, and how to create a dog-friendly home!