If you're like most pet owners, your dog is your best friend. But unconditional love isn't the only thing a dog needs to be happy and healthy. In fact, some of your daily habits may do more harm than good to your canine companion. Here are some harmful things dog owners do to their pets without even realizing it. Avoid these common mistakes to become a model pet owner and help your dog stay safe and healthy by your side.

Using The Wrong Collar And Leash

Regular outings are essential for socializing your dog. But the wrong leash or collar can make these outings dangerous. If your dog tugs on its leash, opting for a harness instead can prevent neck injuries. Likewise, a too-tight collar can constrict your dog's airways. Make sure you can comfortably fit your finger under the collar (two fingers for larger dogs).

[NEXTPAGE]

Attempting Experimental Grooming

Getting creative with your dog's grooming might seem like a fun idea, but these experiments usually aren't safe. Since most pet owners aren't trained groomers, at-home haircuts put dogs at risk of painful cuts. Plus, brightly colored hair dyes can cause burns and infections. Leave grooming to the professionals and your dog will thank you for it.

[NEXTPAGE]

Giving Them The Baby Treatment

Sometimes it's hard to resist babying your dog. However, research suggests that too much coddling can lead to disobedience and aggression. Instead, show love to your pet by giving them structure and proper training, and by recognizing signs of discomfort like bulging eyes and flattened ears. Overall, just let your dog be a dog.

[NEXTPAGE]

Not Securing Your Dog In The Car

You wouldn't dream of riding in a car without a seatbelt. So why is it different for your dog? In the event of an accident, dogs are just as likely as humans to be injured. Keep your dog safe in the car with a harness seat belt, a crate or a backseat barrier.

[NEXTPAGE]

Forcing Them Into New Friendships

Just like humans, not all dogs get along. Forcing your dog to socialize with another animal can lead to high stress levels and anxiety—especially if they've had an unpleasant encounter in the past. Instead, follow your pet's lead. If your dog starts to get aggressive, it may be time to bring the playdate to an end.

[NEXTPAGE]

Giving Your Dog Bones

While your dog might be eager to chew on a bone, this is one treat that is better left alone. Raw bones can contain pathogens like Listeria that may make your dog sick. Bones can also harm your dog's teeth, and broken bone shards can damage their esophagus and stomach lining.

[NEXTPAGE]

Dressing Your Dog Up

A cute pet costume is always good for a laugh. But playing dress-up with your dog could be more harmful than it appears. Clothing can rub against your dog's skin, causing irritation, overheating and stress. Even cold-weather coats can be uncomfortable for a dog, so it's best to leave the clothing behind no matter the season.

[NEXTPAGE]

Letting Your Dog Stick Its Head Out Of A Moving Vehicle

While it may look good in the movies, letting your dog stick its head out the window can cause them serious injury. Rocks and other debris may damage the eyes, while wind and road noise can harm the soft flaps of a dog's ears. Too much excitement can even cause your pet to fall out of the window altogether.

[NEXTPAGE]

Teasing Them With Food

While it may be funny to tease your dog with a tasty snack, your pet won't share your sense of humor. Since dogs don't understand the concept of teasing, it can cause hyperactivity, disobedience and aggression. Over time, teasing your dog will become more frustrated and the bond of trust between you will deteriorate.

[NEXTPAGE]

Being A Clean Freak About Everything

When sharing your life with a pet, things are bound to get a little messy. Unfortunately, many cleaning products contain harmful ingredients like ammonia, chlorine and bleach that can cause deadly respiratory damage to your dog. If you're a clean freak, try to embrace the mess and keep harsh products at a minimum.

[NEXTPAGE]

Not Having Any Rules Set

It's easy to let your dog get away with bad behavior because it makes you laugh or seems too difficult to correct. But no training is training in itself—letting your dog do as it pleases can foster disobedience. Establishing rules and sticking to them gives your dog structure and keeps you both satisfied in the long run.

[NEXTPAGE]

Waking Them From A Dead Sleep

Have you ever noticed your pet twitching and whimpering during a snooze? They could be deep into a REM sleep cycle. Waking a sleeping dog can not only frighten the canine but may lead to an accidental bite. REM sleep is perfectly normal, so it's best to let sleeping dogs lie.

[NEXTPAGE]

Getting In Their Face

Like humans, most dogs don't appreciate anyone being right up in their faces. Getting too close can make a dog anxious and aggressive, which may lead to a painful bite. As a rule, it's best to respect a dog's personal space and recognize warning signs like growls and curled lips—especially if you're a stranger to them.

[NEXTPAGE]

Bathing Them Too Often

Unlike humans, dogs don't need to bathe every day. Their coats are well-equipped with natural oils that keep them smooth and shiny with only the occasional bath. Too much washing depletes these oils and can even leave their skin dry and irritated. In this case, it's best to leave the bathing to the humans.

[NEXTPAGE]

Not Letting Your Dog Sniff And Explore

A dog's sense of smell is thousands of times more powerful than a human's. Sniffing is how a dog explores and understands the world, but it can make even a short walk around the block take forever. Instead of pulling your dog along, let them sniff as they please—they'll be happier for it.

[NEXTPAGE]

Having A Lack Of Routine In Your Dogs Life

While you don't need to pencil in your pet's every hour, a daily routine is important for raising a well-rounded dog. Structure gives your dog a sense of safety and improves their mental health. It also eases separation anxiety and minimizes disobedience, making it easier for them to adapt when there is a change in schedule.

[NEXTPAGE]

Covering Your Dog With Blankets

You might think a blanket can give your dog some much-needed warmth in the colder months. In reality, most dogs will be warm enough with their fur alone. Some dogs may even feel trapped by blankets, leading to feelings of anxiety. In this case, you can save the blanket for yourself.

[NEXTPAGE]

Not Letting Your Dog Be A Dog

Though you might love your dog like a child, the truth is that dogs aren't human. Expecting your dog to act like you is cruel, and can cause your pet to develop feelings of confusion and anxiety. Let your dog be a dog and you'll find your relationship better for it.

[NEXTPAGE]

Neglecting Breed-Specific Health Issues

Different dog breeds have different health needs. Some dogs are predisposed to certain health conditions that may cause complications as they age. Do some research to find out what issues you can expect and be on the lookout for any warning signs. You may be able to prevent such conditions before they arise.

[NEXTPAGE]

Forgetting Dogs Need The Proper Things To Chew

Most puppies grow out of the destructive chewing phase, but don't scold your dog if you notice they're doing a lot of gnawing. Chewing is not only a fun stress reliever, but it can also strengthen your dog's teeth as they age. Just make sure your dog knows what to chew on and what to avoid.

[NEXTPAGE]

Giving Them Too Many Snacks

Puppy-dog eyes make it hard to resist sharing your snack, but most human food is hard for dogs to break down in their stomachs. Plus, too much snacking can foster poor health in your pet. Resist your dog's begging face and snack in moderation—in the long run, your dog will thank you for it.

[NEXTPAGE]

Taking Your Dog On The Same Walk

Walks are a great way to give your dog some much-needed stimulation and entertainment. But taking the same route every day can leave your dog bored. Instead, find a new direction and switch up your route frequently. That way, your walk will stay fulfilling for both you and your pet.

[NEXTPAGE]

Feeding Them Cheap Dog Food

Low-priced dog foods tend to contain more by-products and fewer whole grains and meats. Over time, they can cause dental issues and other health conditions, particularly if they aren't supplying the nutrients your dog needs. Investing in high-quality dog food will keep your pet healthy and happy in the long term.

[NEXTPAGE]

Skipping Flea, Tick, And Worming Treatments

Fleas, ticks and worms can cause serious health and hygiene issues for any dog. While these conditions may be treatable, prevention is the best medicine. Instead of skipping treatments, work with your veterinarian to find the best treatment for your dog and stay up to date with your appointments to ensure the prevention lasts.

[NEXTPAGE]

Leaving Them In The Summer Heat For To Long

Just like humans, dogs are at risk of dehydration and heatstroke during the hot summer months. Plus, the sun-scorched pavement can burn the sensitive pads of their feet. To protect your dog, keep them inside or out of direct sunlight when it gets too hot, and make sure they're drinking plenty of water.

[NEXTPAGE]

Forcing Your Dog Into Tight Spaces

Your pup needs his personal space to spread out and feel comfortable, so forcing him into too small of a cage would just make his everyday life a whole lot less enjoyable. Let's be honest here... would you feel at home squeezed into the fetal position like this furry fella every other night? Give your Fido the freedom they need.

[NEXTPAGE]

Providing Too Little Stimulation

Just like humans, dogs aren't meant to spend their lives staying in place all day. They require stimulation, and it has plenty of benefits for the both of you: it encourages good behavior, boosts your pup's mood, increases their confidence, and gives them an outlet for all that lively energy! Plopping in front of the TV? No fun for Fido.

[NEXTPAGE]

Invading A Dogs Personal Space

Imagine this peaceful scene: You're relaxing at home after a long day when a friend sneaks up from behind and grabs the side of your head so fast you can't even react. This is how your poor dog feels when you invade their personal space. The TikTok isn't worth the lifetime of distrust every time you bust out the camera.

[NEXTPAGE]

Vacuuming Too Close To Their Personal Space

In case you weren't aware, dogs have heightened hearing ability compared to us mere mortals. They can hear twice the frequencies from four times further away, which is impressive. Naturally, that makes them 2x to 4x as afraid of loud noises, and the suddenness of your vacuum can cause more than discomfort, but fear, anxiety, and genuine distress. Avoid it.

[NEXTPAGE]

Not Preparing Before Going To The Vet

An unexpected doctor's appointment is no fun for anyone, especially when you're grabbed and dragged there with no means of getting away. From the looks on their faces, these playful pups weren't exactly excited about their surprise check-ups. One German Shepherd even straddled the door with both paws to claw his way out of there. We recommend preparing them, please.

[NEXTPAGE]

Exposing Them To Loud Environments

With twice the hearing frequency of the average human, loud noises are a nightmare to your dog's ultra-sensitive eardrums. That horn that's driving you crazy with non-stop honking next door? Your furry friend can hear that same sound from 80 feet away! This cutie started clamming up when the noise kicked in, and his poor little face says it all.

[NEXTPAGE]

Bringing Puppies To A Dog Park

Dog parks aren't the safest place for the littlest members of your furry family, especially itty bitty puppies under 12 weeks old. Dog parks are a breeding ground for all types of germs, allergens, and bacteria, which aren't the best idea for pups that haven't been fully immunized. Once they're healthy with all of their shots, consider scheduling a playdate.

[NEXTPAGE]

Interrupting Them During Dinnertime

Resource guarding is an evolutionary behavior passed down over generations of dogs. Your canine companion may growl, start flattening their ears, bite, act aggressively, or even run you away from the area entirely. Dogs have an innate need to protect their meals, so it's nothing personal. Let their instincts shine by giving them space to savor their meals in peace.

[NEXTPAGE]

Showering Them With Affection, Affection, And More Affection

Your furry friends cherish moments when you share the love, but that doesn't mean you should go overboard. Forcing them into photos, shoving their face against yours — it's doing too much. This fearless Fido is giving his all to keep his inner demons from brewing to the surface. Give them the cuddles they crave, but know when enough is enough.

[NEXTPAGE]

Overwhelming Them With Too Many Toys

Your dog's toys serve a purpose — they keep them active both physically and mentally, but they should also provide a means of strengthening your relationship. If you're just plopping your pup in front of their play area, you're negating the purpose of each of toy, whether that's physical exercise or cognitive stimulation. Give them what they love, but choose wisely.

[NEXTPAGE]

Rushing Potty Time

It takes two to tango, and that's what these puffy pals did during nighttime pee time. Rushing makes it more difficult for them to mark their territory and find a comfortable place to do business, and if you've got more than one pup, you're in for a rude awakening filled with tangled collars, fussed fur, and paws getting pounded on.

[NEXTPAGE]

Yelling They Do Something Wrong

Just like a child, your pup requires love and affection. Accidents happen, and your furry friends are not immune to the occasional mishap. Yelling could reduce your dog's confidence and self-esteem in their most pivotal years, potentially causing them psychological harm that they could carry with them for life, along with associated stress behaviors you'll be very grateful you avoided.

[NEXTPAGE]

Neglecting Your Dog's Teeth

Your canine's oral health is paramount, and they look oh-so-adorable dolled up in little bows and blinged-up collars as you wipe away plaque and odor-causing bacteria. This helps keep their dental hygiene in check, reducing pain and discomfort for them while cutting down on the sky-high fees for dental visits on your end. In other words, it's a complete win-win.

[NEXTPAGE]

Getting Upset Around Them

Dogs experience stress and anxiety just like the rest of us, but they don't take frustration so well. Your pup is also the ultimate empath who understands and reacts to your moods. If you're feeling angry or agitated, those emotions will pass onto your pup, adding more negative feelings to battle. Take it easy, and chances are, they will too.

[NEXTPAGE]

Leaving Them Alone In The Car

If it's 100 degrees and you consider it suitable to leave Fido alone in the car, reconsider pet ownership right now. Not only could your dog overheat, but leaving them inside could cause harmful symptoms ranging from a rapid pulse to heavy breathing, vomiting, staggering while walking and a purple tongue. Suffocation and heat stroke — both potentially deadly — are real risks.

[NEXTPAGE]

Patting Them On The Top Of Their Heads

A head pat here and there might be excellent for your feline friends, but dogs aren't so open to this popular pet care behavior. They perceive it as threatening and will react accordingly, not only disliking you, but potentially disowning you for life while growling, biting, and pawing away in the process. Always be gentle, compassionate, and avoid their heads.

[NEXTPAGE]

Having Strong Fragrances Around The House

Aww, this furry friend looks like he's just experienced the sneeze of the year, and if you're a fragrance fanatic, you're no stranger to this phenomenon. Many aromas repel dogs, but others can be downright toxic and can result in respiratory problems, kidney damage, dizziness, and gut irritation. Keep your luxurious scent collection to a minimum when dogs are around.

[NEXTPAGE]

Breaking Up A Puppy Wrestling Match

Play fighting is a vital part of puppy development, so don't discourage them. Not only is it completely normal to brawl with their siblings and playmates, but it teaches them valuable skills in the way kindergarten teaches kids. Playful pups learn how to build their strength, bodily coordination, social skills, and when to stop undesirable behaviors directly through play fighting.

[NEXTPAGE]

Each Owner Having Their Own Rules

This comes naturally without most of us even realizing it, but we don't treat all of our animals the same. If you're playful, compassionate, and readily handing out treats, for instance, and your partner is standoffish and strict, your dogs will get confused and not be sure how to respond. Ensure that the entire household is on the same page.

[NEXTPAGE]

Letting Children Climbing On Them

Your toddler might consider the family pet their best pal, but your dog is unlikely to reciprocate those feelings. While little ones consider your furry friends their personal playground, pups feel that their dominance is threatened and may feel fearful, challenged, or ready to attack. Keep both your dog and your child out of this situation to keep the peace.

[NEXTPAGE]

Feeding Human Food To Your Dog

Dogs can be the ultimate opportunists, but ensure that they keep their paws away from your pantry. Many foods are toxic to your pets, leading to painful symptoms ranging from nausea and vomiting to red blood cell damage. Stay away from avocados, chives, chocolate, corn on the cob, onions, and macadamia nuts to help prevent emergencies and maintain positive health.

[NEXTPAGE]

Feeding Your Dog Off Your Plate

For the same reason dogs should avoid human foods, they should also stay away from your plate. They risk adverse reactions and illness, but so do you if you're sharing meals with your pup. Think about it: they sniff and lick everything from their bottom to the ground they walk on. Not exactly someone you should swap food tidbits with.

[NEXTPAGE]

Relying Too Much On Treats

Treats are an essential part of the training process, especially in your canine's earliest months. Reward-based training gives them positive reinforcement, but there's a limit. Too many calorie-dense treats can spoil your dog's appetite for the healthy meals they require daily, causing them to pack on the pounds without consuming the nutrients they require, resulting in an unhealthy, overweight frame.

[NEXTPAGE]

Not Following Through On Commands

Dogs rely on you to provide them with instructions, whether it's when to eat or how to sit, jump, or spin in circles. When you communicate with your pet, you're communicating your sense of trust, along with setting expectations so they know which rules to follow and what you'll put up with with. Follow through, and they'll start following along.

[NEXTPAGE]

Leaving Harmful Objects Around

Dogs love to grab whatever they can find and stick it into their mouths, resulting in dangerous conditions such as gastrointestinal obstructions and suffocations. Bags, for instance, are thin enough to cover your dog's head, creating potential danger every time they breathe in. Smaller items could get lodged in their stomach, intestines, or esophagus. Keep harmful objects hidden safely away.

[NEXTPAGE]

Not Providing Them With Enough Water

Each day, your dog should drink one ounce of water for every pound that it weighs, though active dogs may need more. Too little water can lead to dehydration and other health conditions over time. Make sure your dog always has access to clean water, and refill it often to keep your dog healthy and energized.

[NEXTPAGE]

Forgetting To Check Their ID

The thought of your dog getting lost likely makes you feel sick. To keep your dog safe when they can't find their way home, check their ID tag regularly. These tags can fade and should be replaced every so often. If you move or get a new phone number, make sure the information on your pet's ID is updated.

[NEXTPAGE]

Under Socializing Your Dog

Like all creatures, dogs need proper socialization. Too little, and your dog may become disobedient, uncomfortable or even aggressive in the presence of other animals. To prevent this, make sure your dog spends time with humans, dogs and other creatures outside of your home so they'll know exactly how to behave and avoid unwanted anxiety.

[NEXTPAGE]

Feeding Your Dog Chocolate

Chocolate contains a chemical called theobromine, which cannot be metabolized by a dog's body. Ingesting chocolate is rarely fatal to dogs, but it can cause serious illness if left unattended. Avoid giving your dog chocolate at all costs, and monitor them carefully for signs of illness if you think they've ingested any.

[NEXTPAGE]

Not Picking Up After Your Dog

Part of having a dog is adhering to proper pet etiquette. During outings, this means cleaning up after your dog if they've made a mess. That way, the space is kept usable for humans and animals alike. Even at home, picking up after your dog prevents your backyard from becoming an exercise in balance.

[NEXTPAGE]

"Self-Medicating" Your Dog

Unlike humans, dogs rarely benefit from over-the-counter medications. Since most pet owners aren't experts in canine physiology, it's best to avoid self-medicating your dog. Incorrect doses can be fatal, and it's better to consult an expert than take a chance. If your dog isn't feeling well, talk to your veterinarian to determine the best course of action.

[NEXTPAGE]

Letting Your Dog Have Access To The Bathroom

The bathroom is home to plenty of things your dog shouldn't have access to, including the trash and the toilet. To keep your dog away from potentially toxic substances, don't let them have unsupervised access to the bathroom. That way, curious pups won't leave you with a major mess to clean up.

[NEXTPAGE]

Leaving Your Dog Alone In The Yard

You might think your dog would love nothing more than to roam free in the backyard. Unfortunately, too much outdoor alone time can have adverse effects. It may cause your dog to feel isolated, which can lead to aggression, destructive habits and even depression. Instead, keep your dog company in the yard or bring them inside with the family.

[NEXTPAGE]

Not Letting Them Take Breaks During Playtime

Playing with your dog can be fun and stimulating for both of you. However, all that running around can be hard on a dog, especially for senior pets. For this reason, it's important to let your dog take breaks during playtime. This will prevent overexertion which can lead to exhaustion or even injury.

[NEXTPAGE]

Smoking Around Your Dogs

Secondhand smoke is deadly for people and animals alike. Dogs who are frequently exposed to smoke are more susceptible to eye infections, respiratory conditions and even lung cancer. If you smoke, avoid doing so in the house or on walks with your dog. Like the rest of your family, your dog will thank you for it.

[NEXTPAGE]

Having Flowers And Plants Around The House

Houseplants might seem like a harmless addition to your home, but some can be extremely toxic to dogs. Common varieties like aloe vera, ZZ plants, azaleas and tulips are extremely toxic to pets and should be left out of the home. If you plan to buy a houseplant, do your research beforehand to make sure it's safe for your dog.

[NEXTPAGE]

Using Different Words Then The Actual Command

When training your dog, it's tempting to invent fun names for every trick. But while dogs can't speak, they are intelligent animals who can understand spoken cues. Using different words than the actual command can confuse them and cause unnecessary frustration. In most cases, it's best to stick to basic words that your dog can easily remember.

[NEXTPAGE]

Subbing Dental Snacks For A Real Tooth-Brushing

Simply tossing a dental snack to your dog is much more convenient than carefully brushing their teeth. Unfortunately, most of these treats offer very little in terms of dental hygiene, and relying on them exclusively can cause your dog to develop teeth issues. Instead, continue brushing your dog's teeth and use dental snacks only as a supplement.

[NEXTPAGE]

Relying Solely On Your Groomer To Take Care Of Your Dog’s Hygiene

Finding a good groomer is an essential part of being a pet owner—but you shouldn't rely on them for all of your dog's hygiene needs. Occasional baths, regular nail trimmings and daily teeth-brushing are all part of your responsibilities. Make these tasks part of your routine to keep your dog comfortable and happy.

[NEXTPAGE]

Being Unwilling To Change Your Behavior

No pet owner is perfect. However, the best ones are those who are always trying to do better. Knowing a behavior is harmful yet being unwilling to change it is much worse than simply not knowing. To keep your dog happy, adopt an open mindset and be willing to make changes in your pet's best interest.

[NEXTPAGE]

Assuming Your Dog Knows Right From Wrong

Your dog isn't being disobedient just to spite you. In most cases, when a dog misbehaves, they don't even realize they're doing so. Assuming your dog knows right from wrong may cause you to lash out and damage your bond in the process. Understand that your dog is just being a dog and provide some extra guidance when it's needed.

[NEXTPAGE]

Using Shock Or “Bark” Collars

Shock and bark collars are inhumane forms of behavioral correction. They may produce results in the short term, but over time your dog could become aggressive and highly stressed. Plus, they can cause painful burns and raise your dog's heart rate to unsafe levels. Instead, opt for obedience training to promote good behavior without harming your pet.

[NEXTPAGE]

Not Crate Training Your Dog

Dogs of all ages benefit from crate training. A dog's natural instinct is to seek out a comfortable place to recharge in, and a crate can provide just that. It's also a stress-free way to teach your pet desirable behavior skills. With just a little effort, crate training can set your dog up for a lifetime of happiness.

[NEXTPAGE]

Not Socializing Them With Other Dogs

There is nothing worse than being the only pet parent at the park whose dog won't behave. Prevent this by giving your pet plenty of opportunities to socialize with other dogs. Not only will your dog be happier for it, but they'll learn essential social skills that will leave them playing respectfully no matter where you go.

[NEXTPAGE]

Not Washing Your Dogs Dishes

You wouldn't eat off of dirty dishes, so why would you expect your pet to? Without proper cleaning, a dog food bowl can grow harmful bacteria that can lead to illness or costly dental issues. Keep your dog safe and healthy by cleaning their dish after every meal, just like you do for yourself.

[NEXTPAGE]

Skipping Your Dogs Annual Vaccinations

Like humans, dogs shouldn't miss their yearly vaccination appointments. Diseases like parvovirus, distemper, hepatitis and rabies all require regular shots to maintain prevention. Missing even a single dose leaves your dog susceptible to serious illness. Instead, mark your calendar and keep your dog immunized to ensure they stay healthy all year round.

[NEXTPAGE]

Not Brushing Your Dog Often Enough

It's a good idea to brush your dog every few days, even if they have short hair. Brushing regularly helps your dog get rid of dead hair and skin cells that would otherwise end up on your couch, and distributes their coat's natural oils. Plus, it's a good opportunity to strengthen the bond between you and your pet.

[NEXTPAGE]

Not Checking Your Dog For Anything Weird After Their Walk

Even if your dog hasn't been running through the wilderness, it's a good idea to check them over after each walk. Leaves and other debris can get stuck to their fur or paws and lead to discomfort while hitchhiking bugs can cause irritation or illness. Make sure everything looks good and your dog will thank you for it.

[NEXTPAGE]

Choosing The Wrong Toys For Your Dog

Not all dog toys will work for your pet. Toys with sharp edges or hard pieces can injure dogs with sensitive mouths, while flimsy toys can make playtime seem boring. Instead of selecting toys off the shelf at random, pay attention to your dog to see what they enjoy best.

[NEXTPAGE]

Allowing Your Dog To Run With A Stick In Their Mouth

It's a common myth that sticks are fun toys for dogs to play with. In fact, they can actually be extremely dangerous. From splinters to lacerations, sticks can cause serious injuries to your dog's soft palate or throat. To avoid pain altogether, stick to regular dog toys for a safer playtime.

[NEXTPAGE]