Last week we looked at three common myths about cats. This week, let’s take a look at three myths about dogs, and the important truths that you should be aware of.
A Wagging Tail Means a Dog Is Happy
Many times the wagging tail on your dog when he greets you after a day at work is an indication that he’s happy. Tail wagging can definitely mean a happy dog, but it doesn’t always. Sometimes dogs wag their tails when they’re anxious or nervous. Watch your dog’s overall body language, and take a look at the situation, to determine if your dog’s truly happy, or if he might actually be anxious. And if the tail-wagging dog is a dog who is unfamiliar to you, then do not assume that he’s happy, and don’t approach him.
If Your Dog Has an Accident in the House, Rub His Nose In It To Teach Him
Housetraining can be frustrating for both dog and human, and when you discover that your dog’s had an accident, it might make sense to try to teach him a lesson by rubbing his nose in it. The problem here is that your dog won’t understand what you’re “teaching” him, since the accident was over and done with. If you catch your dog in the act, then you can tell him “No” and immediately take him outside. If it’s after the fact, though, there’s nothing you can do but clean up and take your dog outside.
A Dog’s Mouth is Cleaner than a Human’s
This myth could be setting you up for illness. A dog’s mouth has just as many germs in it as a human’s mouth does. Think about all of the things that your dog puts into his mouth – bones, tennis balls, and probably some things we don’t want to think about. A dog has plenty of germs in his mouth, so while you might let him lick your face on occasion, remember that it’s still important for you to wash up after.
