Working with dogs, I encounter a lot of different types of personalities. From real sweethearts to bullies who mark their territory wherever they go, everything is possible with their humans.
There is no such thing as a bad dog; only not so good people who raise them. Dealing with clients on a daily basis is a part of any animal care facility and in doing so I have come up with three of my biggest pet peeves about pet owners.
Thinking Their Dog is the Greatest
Many dog owners think their pooch is the most fantastic animal to ever walk this planet. Have they never heard of the rhinoceros?
These owners are reassured that their dog is so gentle and would never hurt a fly or do anything annoying in the least bit. While many dogs are true sweethearts, others are not. Owners need to realize that not everyone thinks their dog is the greatest thing in the world. Parents are guilty of the same thing too and most of us are smart enough to realize some kids just are not any good. Thankfully plenty of dog owners are aware of how much trouble their labradoodle can cause.
Dog Clothing
There is a reason why dogs never go out shopping for clothes on the weekends: they are not old to be approved for a credit card. Even if they were, there is a second reason: dogs do not need clothes.
While a dog may look cute in a sweater or other shirt, many grow uncomfortable quickly. Dogs have no shame (i.e. most everything they do). Owners frequently put their dogs in these costumes and parade them around thinking this animal needs a sewn on dress made with cheap labor. The truth is dogs are fine in the cold completely naked. Now if only my neighbors who always forget to close the blinds could stop feeling this way.
Unwilling to Learn
You can’t teach an old dog new tricks and you can’t teach many dog owners to take responsibility. Owning a dog is not a walk in a park. A walk in a park is just something you do with your dog when they are mature enough to be around others while on a leash.
Dog owners need to learn that it is their responsibility to educate themselves on what is best for their dog. Many think a well-behaved dog occurs naturally, which it does not. The same way you have to put in an effort with a child you have to with a dog. Any dog can learn to be good. All it takes is for the ones cleaning up after them to guide them along. Educating yourself on how to best take care of your dog means you will no longer have to rely on others to do something that is very simple to learn. Trust in yourself and you will end up with a dog closer to Lassie than Cujo.
