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A wagging tail always means a happy dog -

While dogs do wag their tails when they're happy, friendly, and excited, they also do it when they're scared or insecure. It's important to pay attention to the rest of their body language and use caution when approaching a dog you don't know.

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Dogs only eat grass when they're sick -

Many believe that dogs eat grass only when they're unwell or experiencing digestive issues. However, dogs may chew on grass for various reasons, including boredom, curiosity, or simply because they enjoy the taste. While occasional grass consumption is generally harmless, persistent behavior should be monitored. 

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Dogs only see in black and white -

Although dogs can't see the world in full technicolor like humans, they do see some colors. Their eyes detect fewer colors than ours, so their perception is similar to humans with color blindness.

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Small dogs are less energetic than large dogs -

While it's true that some larger breeds may have higher energy levels, a dog's energy level is actually influenced by various factors, including breed characteristics, individual temperament, genetics, lifestyle, and overall health, rather than just size.

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You can't teach an old dog new tricks -

It may take a little longer, but as long as their brain is in good shape, an older dog can absolutely learn new things!

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Garlic is a natural flea and tick remedy -

Garlic is actually toxic to dogs and one of the foods dogs can't eat, so you'll want to keep it away from your pup.

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One dog year equals seven human years -

Although dogs do age quicker than humans, this ratio isn't quite accurate. Different breeds take different lengths of time to reach maturity, and lifespans vary based on size and genetics, too.

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Dogs only need to be vaccinated once -

Many pet parents believe that follow-up vaccinations aren't required after the initial round. However, dogs need constant protection against bacterial and viral diseases.

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If you meet a dog, let it sniff your hand -

In actuality, you shouldn't stick your hand out toward any dog you've just met. Your hand can be misinterpreted as a sign of aggression, and a dog may bite you. 

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Bad dog breath is completely normal -

Your dog's breath really shouldn't be that bad, and you should be brushing their teeth two to three times per week. Bad breath is an indicator of underlying health issues.

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Rubbing your dog's nose in an accident curbs future behavior -

When doing this, you're punishing a dog that doesn't know why it's being punished. This could exacerbate the issue and create more problems in the future. Instead, it's best to catch them in the act and redirect them to their proper potty destination.

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A warm and dry nose means your dog is sick -

The temperature, dryness, or moistness of a dog's nose isn't a reliable indicator of their health, nor does it indicate an illness. 

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Always spay or neuter at a young age -

Numerous studies have shown this to be untrue, and waiting to neuter your dog may be safer in the long run. Plus, there are also added health benefits to allowing dogs to keep their reproductive organs intact into adulthood.

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Dogs only need physical exercise -

While physical exercise is crucial for a dog's well-being, mental stimulation is equally important. Puzzle toys, interactive games, and obedience training can keep their minds sharp and prevent behavioral issues.

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A dog's mouth is cleaner than a human's -

While dog saliva has a slightly more alkaline pH, which can discourage some bacteria from reproducing, it's certainly not clean! 

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Dogs evolved from wolves and should eat like them -

Although dogs and wolves come from the same lineage, treating them as an interchangeable species isn't ideal and can even impact their health. In fact, evolution has made them two entirely different creatures.

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Dogs only need to go to the vet when they're sick -

Just like humans, pets should have regular medical care to ensure the best health. Yearly exams, weight checks, and routine diagnostics are an integral part of keeping your furry friend as healthy as possible.

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Use dog treats to bribe your pet -

The best dog trainers view treats as rewards, not bribes. If you're giving them treats before a bad behavior happens, that would be considered a bribe. However, after they do something good, like dropping something they shouldn't be chewing on, then you could give them a treat. 

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It's important to show your dominance -

The concept of the "alpha wolf" and dominance-based training has been widely discredited in the dog training community. Positive reinforcement trainers focus on building a strong bond based on trust and cooperation, rather than instilling fear or dominance. 

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You can leave your dog in a car with the windows down on a hot day -

It's never okay to leave your dog alone in a hot car, even with the windows down. Cars heat up extremely quickly in warm weather, and heatstroke can be fatal in a matter of minutes.

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Having two puppies at once is best, as they'll have a playmate -

The biggest issue with raising two puppies together is that they'll be harder to train. This is because they're oftentimes so co-dependent that they don't seem to develop as much as a puppy raised by itself.

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All dogs love physical touch -

While many dogs do thrive on human affection, individual preferences vary among them. Some dogs may like being petted and cuddled, others may be more reserved or may even find certain types of touch uncomfortable.

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Short-haired dogs don't need grooming -

When people think of dog grooming, they often think of haircuts. However, grooming includes bathing, ear cleaning, nail clipping and teeth brushing, which is something all dogs need to stay clean, comfortable, and healthy

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Dogs yawn when they’re tired -

Yawning is common in dogs, and while they may yawn when they are tired, dogs also yawn due to boredom, anxiety, stress, or when they want to get away with something.

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Puppies will stop chewing once they lose their baby teeth -

Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, and puppies will continue to chew into adulthood.

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A female dog feels "empty" if they don't have a litter -

It's also a myth that female dogs need to have one litter before spaying. Dogs are unable to feel broody, and allowing them to have one litter before getting them neutered has no proven health or behavior benefit for them.

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It's not suitable to have a rescue dog with a young family -

Some rescue dogs may have some behavioral challenges and sensitivities, and won't be suitable to live with young children. But many rescue dogs will have successfully lived with them in the past and can do so in a new family. 

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Cutting a long-haired dog's coat will help keep them cooler in summer -

Most dogs with long hair have better protection from the sun and better temperature regulation. In reality, their coat works like a thermostat to help regulate their body temperature in both hot and cold weather. 

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It's okay to give human food to pets -

Given the vast difference between the digestive systems of humans and dogs, their ability to process food is very different. Hence, certain items like berries, chocolate, milk, fried food, dry fruits, coffee, and processed meat must be avoided.

Sources: (Reader's Digest) (Pupford) (Blue Cross) 

See also: Mistakes dog owners make all the time

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