29 Common Dog Training Myths

Training a dog is a task that requires patience, dedication and knowledge. However, the process is often misunderstood due to a number of myths that circulate about the subject. Here are 29 common myths about dog training:

1. "Dogs can only be trained when they are puppies"

While it is true that puppies can be easier to train due to their ability to learn quickly, dogs of any age can be successfully trained.

2. "Small dogs are harder to train than big dogs"

The size of the dog has nothing to do with its ability to be trained. The dog's personality and disposition play a much bigger role.

3. "You need to be dominant to train your dog"

Dog training is most effective when it is based on mutual respect and clear communication, not dominance.

4. "Dogs should be punished for bad behavior"

Punishing a dog for bad behavior can actually make the problem worse. Instead, it's best to reward good behavior and ignore bad behavior.

5. "Dogs have no memory, so they don't remember training"

In fact, dogs have an excellent memory and are capable of remembering trained commands and behaviors throughout their lives.

6. "Dogs are only motivated by food"

While many dogs respond well to food rewards, they can also be motivated by praise, toys, and affection.

7. "Old dogs can't learn new tricks"

This is a common myth, but completely false. Dogs of all ages are capable of learning new skills and behaviors.

8. "Dog training is expensive"

The cost of dog training can vary, but there are many free or low-cost resources available to help owners train their dogs.

9. "Purebred dogs are easier to train than strays"

A dog's ability to be trained has more to do with its individual personality and disposition than its breed.

10. "Dogs need constant training to remember commands"

While regular practice is helpful, once a dog has learned a command, he usually remembers it.

11. "Dogs that are aggressive need to be 'broken'"

Aggression in dogs is often a sign of fear or anxiety rather than disobedience. Working with a professional to address these issues is often the best approach.

12. "Dogs that jump on people are just being friendly"

While this may be true in some cases, jumping up and down can also be a sign of dominance or overexcitement.

13. "Dogs don't need to be trained if you have a big yard"

All dogs, regardless of the size of their living space, benefit from regular training.

14. "Dogs that bark a lot are only vocal"

Excessive barking can be a sign of boredom, anxiety, or other behavioral problems.

15. "Dogs that destroy things are just being stubborn"

Destruction can be a sign of separation anxiety, boredom, or lack of adequate exercise.

16. "Dogs that bite are just being aggressive"

Bitting can be a sign of fear, anxiety, or a medical issue, not necessarily aggression.

17. "Dogs that run away are just being disobedient"

Running away can be a sign of fear, boredom, or lack of proper exercise.

18. "Training a dog is a matter of willpower"

Dog training is more about patience, consistency, and clear communication than willpower.

19. "Dogs that are not trained are bad"

Dogs are not inherently "bad" or "good". They are animals that need guidance and training to behave properly.

20. "Dogs that are trained do not need socialization"

Dogs need regular socialization with other dogs and people to become well-adjusted pets.

21. "Training a dog is easy"

Dog training can be challenging and requires patience, consistency and knowledge.

22. "Dogs that are trained never misbehave"

Like people, dogs have bad days and can misbehave occasionally, even after being trained.

23. "Dogs that are trained don't need exercise"

Dogs need regular exercise to maintain physical and mental health, regardless of how well trained they are.

24. "Dogs that are trained don't need attention"

Dogs are social animals that need attention and interaction.regular action with their owners, regardless of how well trained they are.

25. "Dogs that are trained don't need discipline"

Consistent discipline is an important part of dog training and helps reinforce desired behaviors.

26. "Dogs that are trained don't need reinforcement"

Regular reinforcement helps maintain learned behaviors and keeps the dog motivated to continue behaving well.

27. "Dogs that are trained don't need love"

Regardless of how well trained they are, all dogs need love and affection from their owners.

28. "Dogs that are trained don't need care"

Dogs need regular care, such as proper food, exercise, and veterinary attention, regardless of how well trained they are.

29. "Dogs that are trained are less affectionate"

Training does not affect a dog's ability to give and receive affection. In fact, many trained dogs are happier and more relaxed because they understand what is expected of them.