Five common myths about dogs that you shouldn't believe

Dogs can eat the same food as humans

Many dog owners mistakenly believe their pets can eat everything humans do. However, some foods safe for humans can be dangerous for dogs.

For example, avocados contain persin, which is toxic to dogs and can cause serious problems such as vomiting or even heart damage. Foods like onions and garlic can damage red blood cells, leading to anemia.

Additionally, treats such as chocolate, grapes, or cherries can be deadly to dogs. Cherries contain cyanide, which, in large amounts, can lead to respiratory failure.

So, before sharing food with your dog, it is essential to know what is safe and what could be harmful. Always consult a veterinarian to protect your furry friend from potential dangers.

Dogs see in black and white

The common belief is that dogs see the world only in black and white, but this is not entirely true. In fact, a dog’s vision is limited, but they can still perceive certain colors.

Compared to humans, they have fewer cones in their retinas, responsible for color perception. They primarily see shades of blue and yellow, while red and green appear like gray.

This is supported by studies where dogs were trained to recognize colors. While they struggle to distinguish between red and green, their vision is well-adapted to low light and rapid movement, making them excellent hunters and companions in various environments.

Dog aggressiveness depends on the breed

A common myth is that certain breeds, such as Rottweilers or Pit Bulls, are inherently aggressive. However, a dog’s behavior is determined not only by its breed but also mainly by its upbringing, socialization, and experiences.

Any dog, regardless of breed, can become aggressive if it is not properly trained or has experienced mistreatment.

Even small breeds like Chihuahuas can exhibit aggressive behavior despite their small size.

Stereotypes about dangerous breeds often lead to biased attitudes toward dogs, whereas the natural causes of aggression lie in poor socialization and a lack of proper training.

Every animal has a personality, and love and care will make them friendly and affectionate.

Tail-wagging doesn't always mean happiness

Many people believe a dog must be happy if it wags its tail. However, this isn’t entirely accurate. Tail wagging can indicate happiness and other emotions, such as anxiety or aggression. It’s important to pay attention to how a dog wags its tail.

For instance, if the tail is raised and wagging energetically, it may signal excitement or aggression. However, if the tail is low and wagging slowly, it could indicate fear or uncertainty. If tail wagging is accompanied by tension in the dog’s body, it could be a sign of possible aggression.

All dogs can swim

Many believe all dogs are natural swimmers, but this isn’t true. While some breeds, like Retrievers and Labradors, can swim naturally, not all dogs are built for the water.

Some breeds, such as Boxers or Greyhounds, have difficulty staying afloat due to their low body fat. Brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs can tire more easily and even drown due to their short snouts and heavy builds.

Even dogs that can swim may struggle if they unexpectedly fall into the water or aren’t adequately trained. Age also plays a role: older dogs may not have the stamina or strength for safe swimming.

Dogs should be gradually introduced to water, and their reactions and behavior should be closely monitored. Some dogs may even need a life jacket for extra safety when swimming in a pool or at the beach.

We previously discussed how often a cat should be taken to the vet based on age.

Earlier, we also released the top 6 animals that will become the worst pets.

Sources: List Verse, Wikipedia.