Let’s face it dogs are saints. They love us for no reason, forgive us when we’re idiots, and wag their tails as if we hung the moon. But even the most loyal of pups have pet peeves (pun intended). And although they can’t exactly spell it out with barks and belly flops, if dogs could talk, here’s what they’d beg us to stop doing.
1. Hugging Too Much—Yes, It’s a Thing
You enjoy cuddling. Your dog? Not so much.
Oh yeah, some dogs are huge softies and will gladly lean in for a cuddle. But lots of pups take tight hugs as restraint, not love. It makes them feel trapped or nervous. That adorable Instagram hug? Could actually be a quiet plea for help.
What your dog’s thinking:
“You’re my favorite human… But please stop squeezing me like a chew toy.”
Try this instead: Gentle pets on the chest or behind the ears go a long way. Back off if they pull away; it’s not personal.
2. Yelling When They Don’t Understand
Your dog is not being obstinate; they’re confused. Dogs are living in the moment, so scolding them five minutes after they chewed your slipper? Completely useless. Worse, loud yelling just freaks them out.
What your dog’s thinking:
“I have no idea why you’re mad, but now I’m scared of your voice.”
Try this instead:
Positive reinforcement is magic. Catch them doing something right, even if it’s just sitting calmly, and reward the heck out of it.
3. Dressing Them Up Like a Fashion Doll Look: The Halloween taco costume was adorable. But if your dog freezes, scratches at their outfit, or looks like they’ve lost the will to live… it’s not fashion, it’s torture
What your dog’s thinking:
“I’m a majestic creature of the wild… not your fuzzy runway model.”
Try this instead:
If your dog actually loves sweaters or jackets (especially short-haired types in cold weather), wonderful. But leave the tutus behind if your dog isn’t having it. Dignity is important.
4. Gazing Into Their Eyes Like a Serial Killer
We understand; you’re attempting to bond. However, in the world of dogs, too much eye contact is a challenge or threat. That stare-down you’re delivering to your pup while whispering, “Who’s a good boy?” could be triggering internal warnings.
What your dog is thinking:
“I love you, but why are you attempting to fight me with your eyeballs?”
Try this instead:
Look at your dog with soft, relaxed eyes and blink slowly. That’s the canine equivalent of “Hey, we’re cool.”
5. Not Allowing Them to Sniff on Walks
You’ve got things to do. Your dog? They’re attempting to read the morning news through fire hydrants. For dogs, sniffing is critical mental stimulation —it’s how they investigate the world and calm down.
What your dog’s thinking:
“I waited all day for this walk… And now I can’t even sniff the neighborhood gossip?”
Instead, try this:
Schedule “sniffari” walks, slower-paced outings where your dog can take their sweet time exploring the world. It’s mentally stimulating and puts them generally in a better mood.
Love Means Listening (Even When It’s Silent)
Your dog can’t rant, send passive-aggressive texts, or drop hints like
a teenager. But they’re always talking—to you—with body language, behavior, and puppy eyes.
So the next time you
– Yell over a spilled water bowl.
– Wrestle them into a Santa suit,
– Or pull them away mid-sniff…
Stop. Breathe. And recall, they’d never do that to you (though the sniffing… they’d likely still do that). Because what it comes down to, at the end of the day, is that all your dog desires is your love, your patience, and perhaps a little less cosplay.
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FAQs
Do dogs really hate being hugged?
Yes, lots of dogs do not like hugs or even feel threatened by them. While humans express affection by physical contact, dogs tend to view a tight hug as restraint. Some dogs will accept it, but others will become nervous. Always observe your dog’s body language. In case they stiffen, yawn, or attempt to pull away, they’re not having fun.
Why does my dog despise dressing up?
Clothing can stress and confine dogs, particularly if they have a coat covering their legs or head. Whereas some dogs require a sweater for heat, others dislike costumes as being awkward or frightening. In case your dog scratches, freezes, or seems uncomfortable in clothing, it is best to forego the dress-up. Let their natural coat do the flaunting.
Is yelling at my dog damaging?
Absolutely. Yelling doesn’t teach; it confuses and frightens your dog. Dogs learn best from calm, consistent training with positive reinforcement. Rather than yelling when they get it wrong, redirect their behavior and reward the good stuff. It creates trust and teaches quicker.
