Never Do It! Things That Your Dog Hates

Sometimes we do things that bother or mortify our pets without even realizing it.
Never Do It! Things That Your Dog Hates

Last update: 28 March, 2018

Pay attention because in the following article, we are going to talk about some things that your dog hates. 

They are signs of affection for you, but for your dog…

Even if a dog accepts many of your attitudes because he loves you, or because he recognizes that you are his owner, there are certain things that really overwhelm him. Many of them have to do with the way that you choose to spoil him. For example:

  • Hugging him constantly. When you do this, you immobilize him and make him feel vulnerable and submissive.
  • Touching or patting his head. If you pay attention, you will see that when you do this, the animal closes his eyes and bows his head, like a gesture of submission.
  • Squeezing his cheeks. Although it doesn’t seem like it, you are blocking his movement and many of his senses.

Although they can go unnoticed, there are many things that you can be doing regularly that your dog hates. Pay attention to his reactions and avoid these bad moments as much as possible. 

Don’t put clothes or costumes on him; he’s a dog, not a human

Many people insist on humanizing their dogs, without respecting the particular characteristics of each species. This happens very clearly in those that want to dress up their dogs as if they were humans.

A huge industry even caters to this phenomenon: exclusive designs that are updated each season, similar clothes for owners and pets, an infinite number of accessories…

However, do not forget that dogs are not interested at all in fashion. And the only thing that you could do to your pet when dressing him up is causing him discomfort and skin problems if the fabric is inappropriate.

Actually, dogs should only wear– depending on the climate of the region where they live– simple coats in the winter or some protector when they go out for a walk and it’s raining.

Smells and sounds that your dog hates

Hearing is one of the most developed senses in dogs. He perceives many sounds much earlier than you and surely you have been able to see how thunder and fireworks affect him.

But also regular noises could start to upset him, like the vacuum cleaner or the hair-dryer. Even screams or music at high volume.

Furthermore, there are certain smells that are revolting for dogs and their exceptional sense of smell even if they are pleasant to you. Such is the case for the scents of distinct house cleaning products. And it’s a fact that they do not tolerate the perfumes that you might put on yourself. They simply prefer your natural scent.

So try to keep your furry friend far away from these household noises and smells. He will definitely thank you.

Other things that your pet detests

Amongst many other things that bother your dog, we note:

  • Blowing on his nose or in his ears. Resist this action, even though the face that the dog makes can be funny.
  • Touching the soles of his feet. They are very sensitive areas of his body and it could tickle him.

The best thing to do is put yourself in your dog’s shoes and try to understand his body language to know what he likes and doesn’t like.

Try to avoid doing things that bothers your four-legged friend

So, now that you know some things that your dog hates, avoid these uncomfortable situations. 

Maybe if you pay attention you will see that, in some cases, he is making you notice his discomfort in different ways. A veterinarian or an animal behavior specialist are good advisors in this regard. Do not hesitate to contact them.

If there are children at home, explain to them which things they should not do so that your beloved pet is not unhappy or uncomfortable.

Just as you teach your four-legged friend how to live in a house following human criteria, the least you can do is avoid doing things that bother him. It’s easier than it looks.


This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.