The Biggest Mistakes in Dog Training: 18 Things You Should Never Do

Written by Morten Lyhne Petersen

Feb.03 - 2025 1:00 PM CET

Pets
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Photo: Shutterstock.com
Some common mistakes can be harmful to a dog’s training and overall well-being.

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Dogs are loyal and loving companions who rely entirely on their owners for care and security.

Even the most well-meaning dog owners can make mistakes that lead to stress, discomfort, or behavioral problems for their four-legged friends.

To ensure a happy and healthy dog, it’s crucial to understand what to avoid in their daily care and training.

Many misconceptions about dog behavior stem from human habits and assumptions that don’t always align with a dog’s natural instincts.

Seemingly small actions in everyday life can create confusion or insecurity in a dog without us even realizing it.

By learning what not to do, you can build a more harmonious and trusting relationship with your dog.

Rushing Walks

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Dogs need time to sniff, explore, and experience their surroundings while on a walk.

If you constantly rush and pull your dog along, it can cause stress and frustration.

Walks aren’t just about exercise—they also provide crucial mental stimulation and social interaction.

Make sure to allow your dog to enjoy its walks at a relaxed pace.

Improper Nail Trimming

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Many dogs dislike having their nails trimmed, but it’s essential for their health.

Cutting too short can be painful and create a negative association, making future trims even more challenging.

Use the right tools, proceed with care, and help your dog gradually get used to the process.

If you’re unsure, consult a vet or professional groomer.

Keeping the Leash Too Tight

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A constantly tight leash can restrict a dog’s natural movement and cause discomfort or stress.

It may also make your dog more reactive to its environment since it feels trapped and unable to retreat from an uncomfortable situation.

Instead, train your dog to walk calmly on a loose leash, ensuring a more pleasant and secure experience for both of you.

A relaxed leash also strengthens communication between you and your dog.

Bathing Too Often

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While hygiene is important, frequent baths can strip a dog’s skin and coat of natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and itching.

Most dogs only need a bath a few times a year—unless they get particularly dirty or have a skin condition requiring more frequent washing.

Always use a gentle, dog-friendly shampoo to protect their skin.

Making Confusing Movements

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Dogs are highly attuned to body language and react strongly to human movements.

Sudden or unpredictable actions can make them anxious or insecure, as they don’t understand what you’re trying to communicate.

Using clear and consistent signals helps your dog feel secure and confident.

A calm and predictable demeanor builds trust.

Staring Directly Into Their Eyes

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In the canine world, prolonged direct eye contact can be seen as a challenge or threat.

Some dogs may become uneasy or even react defensively if stared at too intensely.

Instead of forcing eye contact, try slow blinking or occasionally looking away to make your dog feel more at ease.

Eye contact should always be gentle and friendly, especially during training or bonding moments.

Ignoring Them When You Get Home

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Your dog eagerly waits for your return and looks forward to your attention.

Ignoring them can lead to frustration or insecurity, as dogs are social animals that thrive on interaction.

While you may not want to reinforce excessive excitement, it’s still important to acknowledge your dog with a calm greeting.

A few kind words or a gentle pat can reassure them that you’re happy to see them too.

Letting Them Get Bored

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Dogs need both physical activity and mental stimulation to stay happy.

A bored dog may develop destructive behaviors such as chewing on furniture, excessive barking, or digging holes in the yard.

Providing enrichment through toys, training, play, or sniffing activities during walks helps keep their mind engaged.

A mentally stimulated dog is a well-balanced and happy dog.

Being Tense or in a Bad Mood

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Dogs are incredibly sensitive to human emotions and can pick up on stress, anger, or sadness.

If you’re tense, your dog may mirror your emotions and become nervous or uncertain.

Be mindful of your energy when interacting with your dog, ensuring a calm and positive atmosphere.

Taking a few deep breaths and relaxing can help both you and your dog feel more at ease.

Forcing Socialization with Other Dogs

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Not all dogs enjoy interacting with other dogs, and it’s essential to respect their boundaries.

Forcing an uncomfortable dog into social situations can lead to stress, anxiety, or even aggression.

Allow dogs to approach each other at their own pace and watch their body language for signs of discomfort.

Socialization should always be a positive experience, never forced.

Exposing Them to Loud Noises

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Dogs have much more sensitive hearing than humans, and loud sounds can be overwhelming or frightening for them.

Constant exposure to noise from traffic, fireworks, or loud music can cause stress and anxiety.

If your dog is particularly noise-sensitive, create a quiet, safe space for them.

Training and positive reinforcement can also help them cope with unavoidable loud sounds.

Leaving Them Alone Too Much

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Dogs are social animals and generally don’t like being alone for long periods.

If frequently left alone without stimulation or companionship, they may develop separation anxiety, destructive behavior, or depression.

Help your dog adjust to alone time gradually and provide entertainment like interactive toys or calming music.

If you’re gone for extended hours, consider hiring a dog walker or asking a friend to check in.

Preventing Them from Sniffing on Walks

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Sniffing is how dogs explore and understand their world.

Preventing a dog from sniffing removes a crucial part of their mental stimulation and can make walks boring or frustrating.

Smelling their surroundings helps dogs gather information, learn about other animals, and feel mentally satisfied.

Instead of pulling them away from scents, allow controlled sniffing within reason.

Forcing Them to Face Their Fears

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If a dog is scared of something—like a vacuum cleaner or other dogs—forcing them into the situation won’t help.

This can actually worsen their fear and make them more anxious in the future.

Instead, use positive reinforcement and gradual desensitization to help them overcome their fears in a safe and controlled way.

Respecting their boundaries and working at their pace is key to building trust.

Interrupting Play Fights Between Dogs

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Dogs have their own way of playing, which can sometimes appear rough but is usually harmless.

Interrupting play unnecessarily can confuse and frustrate them.

It’s important to recognize the difference between playful interactions and real aggression by observing body language and pauses in play.

If things escalate, separate the dogs calmly without creating unnecessary stress.

Assuming a Wagging Tail Always Means Happiness

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Many people mistakenly believe that a wagging tail always signals a happy dog.

In reality, tail wagging can indicate a range of emotions depending on its speed, height, and position.

A stiff, fast wag can mean excitement or uncertainty, while a slow, relaxed wag usually signals friendliness.

Always consider the dog’s overall body language to understand its emotions correctly.

Trying to "Speak" Dog Language

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Some owners attempt to imitate dog sounds or body language to communicate, but this can easily backfire.

Dogs interpret human movements and tone of voice in their own way, and trying to mimic them may be confusing or even perceived as threatening.

Instead of growling or barking back, focus on clear commands, friendly body language, and positive reinforcement.

Building a trusting relationship is more important than trying to “speak dog.”

Treating Them Like a Baby

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It’s tempting to see your dog as a furry baby, but overprotecting or spoiling them can have negative consequences.

Constantly carrying them, dressing them in unnecessary clothing, or shielding them from every challenge can make them insecure and dependent.

Dogs thrive with clear boundaries and a structured routine that helps them understand the world.

Love and care should always be provided on their terms, not as a substitute for human parenting.