Dogs are amazing companions—loyal, loving, and always ready to brighten your day. But as much as we adore them, we might be unknowingly getting on their nerves. If you’re wondering why your dog isn’t quite as excited to see you as usual, it might be time to check if you’re doing something that’s making him annoyed. Here’s a rundown of common ways you could be annoying your dog without even realizing it (and how to fix it)!
You Talk Too Much
We all love talking to our dogs like they’re little humans, but the truth is, they only understand a few words. If you’re delivering a monologue on why they shouldn’t have chewed your favorite shoes, your dog is probably just sitting there confused. Dogs prefer short, simple commands they recognize, like “sit” or “stay.” The more you drone on, the more your dog tunes you out. Instead of giving your dog a lecture, use concise commands and stick to what you’ve trained them to understand.
You Talk Too Loudly
Nobody likes being shouted at, and your dog is no exception. In fact, with their sensitive hearing, loud voices can be downright overwhelming for them. Whether you’re excited or frustrated, raising your voice can be more scary than effective. Dogs read your body language and tone much better than your words, so yelling doesn’t really get the message across—it just makes them nervous. A calm tone and positive reinforcement will get you much further.
You’re Inconsistent With Routines
Dogs thrive on routines. They love knowing when it’s time to eat, go for a walk, and settle down for a nap. If you’re constantly changing things up, like feeding them late or skipping their walk, your dog may become stressed or even start acting out. Suddenly, you’re wondering why they chewed up your favorite pillow. Stick to a consistent schedule to keep your dog feeling secure and happy. Predictability is key for a well-behaved pooch!
You Tease Them With Toys
Playing with your dog is a blast, but teasing them with toys? Not so much. Fake-throwing the ball or yanking away their favorite toy at the last second might seem funny to you, but it can frustrate your dog. They don’t understand pranks the way humans do. Dogs just want to play and bond with you, not get tricked. So, next time you play fetch, toss the ball for real. Your dog will love you more for it!
You Stare at Them
Ever feel like your dog is giving you the “I’m watching you” look? Well, it’s because staring is a big deal in the dog world. While your dog might gaze lovingly at you, staring back intensely can be seen as a sign of aggression or dominance. It’s like you’re challenging them to a showdown. Instead of staring, give them a soft, affectionate look or even a gentle pat. It’s much better for bonding and keeps the peace.
You Leave Them Alone for Too Long
Dogs are social animals, so being left alone for long periods of time can make them anxious or lonely. If they start chewing up furniture or having accidents in the house, it’s often a sign they’re not coping well with the solitude. If you’re gone for extended hours, consider hiring a dog walker or leaving them with toys that keep them entertained. Dogs are happiest when they feel like part of the pack (which, in this case, is you).
You Rush Through Their Walks
Imagine your dog’s excitement when it’s time for a walk—fresh air, new smells, and a chance to stretch their legs! Now imagine that joy being crushed when you rush them through their favorite part of the day. Dogs need time to sniff and explore their surroundings; it’s how they gather information. By hurrying them along, you’re robbing them of their daily adventure. Try to slow down and let your dog enjoy the moment. After all, that blade of grass tells them more than you think!
You Wear Strong Fragrances
Your dog’s sense of smell is one of their superpowers, but that also means they’re extra sensitive to strong scents. Perfumes, colognes, and even certain cleaning products can be overwhelming and irritating to your dog. Wearing strong fragrances might even make them avoid you because they can’t recognize your natural scent. To keep your dog comfortable, it’s best to go easy on the perfume when you’re spending time together.
By being mindful of these little habits, you can make sure you’re not unknowingly bugging your best furry friend. After all, keeping your dog happy means fewer chewed shoes and more tail wags—what more could you ask for?
Linnea is a born and bred Swede but spends as much time as possible in Cape Town, South Africa. This is mainly due to Cape Town’s extraordinary scenery, wildlife, and atmosphere (in other words, because Cape Town is heaven on earth.) That being said, Sweden’s majestic forests forever hold a special place in her heart. Linnea spends as much time as she can close to the ocean collecting sea shells or in the park admiring puppies.
