7 Surprising Things People Do That Dogs Hate

It’s Be Kind to Animals Week and we’re honoring man’s best friend by digging deep into the dog psyche. Although most dog lovers and pet parents think they are always kind to animals, it may surprise you to learn that some things we do with dogs are actually annoying and even dangerous. Dogs, which originated from the wolf, have their own ways of communicating and understanding the world around them. This knowledge comes from centuries of instincts and lessons learned. As pet parents and animal lovers, it’s our job to understand their ways, so that we can offer appropriate guidance, training and affection, without disturbing, undermining or even threatening these gentle, loving souls.

Here are 7 Surprising Things People Do That Dogs Hate:

1. Starring. For dogs, starring often means a challenge, so the last thing you should do is stare at a dog for long periods of time. Though your own dog might not mind it as much, other dogs may interpret this in a negative way and it could lead to unwanted and even aggressive behavior.

2. Hugging. A recent study came out that said that dogs hate being hugged. While the results may be debatable and even controversial, one cannot argue that there is no history of embracing in the canine world. In fact, when one dog puts even a paw on another dog, that is a sign of dominance. Therefore, unless your dog really does enjoy being hugged, it’s best to tell family and friends to stick to gentle petting.

3. Giving Too Much Alone Time. Dogs are social animals and enjoy spending time with their pack, or their human family members. Leaving a dog alone in your home or yard for more than ten hours at a time can lead to the dog turning to destructive behaviors like chewing, incessant barking, digging, or even escaping. While dogs do need their time alone when they are sleeping, or perhaps even eating, for the most part, dogs prefer to be with their family members.

4. Going to Crowded Dog Parks. Going to a crowded dog park for a dog is like stepping into a crowded elevator for a person. It’s uncomfortable, with too much going on, and when dogs get overwhelmed like that it can lead to unwanted behavior. This also applies to doggie daycares and any other social places. While socializing your dog is very important, it’s always good to be mindful of the situation your dog is being placed in, and the adverse reactions and affects it may have on your dog’s physical and psychological well being.

5. Interrupting Sleep. There’s nothing cuter than a sleeping pooch, but waking your dog while it’s snoozing can be just as annoying to the dog as when someone wakes you, especially if it’s for no other reason than snuggles and baby talk. This is especially true for older dogs, and dogs who are easily startled.

6. Inviting Strange Dogs. Inviting strange dogs into your home is annoying for even the most socialized and dog-friendly dog. Dogs are very territorial of their home turf and their natural instinct is to protect it. By allowing strange dogs to enter your home, you are challenging your dog and going against his or her nature. This can lead to unwanted skirmishes and outbursts of undue aggression.

7. Aggressive Greetings. Dog lovers often approach strange dogs on the street by getting down to their level, starring right at the dog with an outstretched hand. This may seem friendly and sweet, but to a dog, who doesn’t know you, getting down to his level is how a predator crouches before attacking, the stare is the second threat, followed by the outstretched hand which is practically begging to be nipped at this point. The best way to greet a strange dog is by not greeting the dog at all. Instead, address yourself to the owner. This gives the dog a chance to smell you and see that since his person isn’t threatened by your presence, so then he shouldn’t be either. Only then is it okay to pet the dog, but briefly and only on the top of the head.

People and canines continue to share many wonderful moments and have developed amazing ways of communicating with each other. However, there are some things that go beyond language, and understanding how dogs think will help pet parents, pet lovers and dogs alike.