Experts share 11 ways you could be confusing your dog, and how to stop

Sophia MitrokostasJan 5, 2021, 20:23 IST

Simple things you're doing may be confusing your dog.Pixabay

Insider asked experts about the ways that dog owners may be confusing their pets.
Giving a dog the wrong kind of name can lead to lifelong confusion.
Letting them play with your fingers or clothing can backfire later on.

They may be your best friend, but that doesn't mean your dog will always understand you.

Insider asked veterinarians and dog behaviorists to call out a few ways that owners often puzzle and overwhelm their furry friends.

Read on for 11 ways you may be confusing your dog, and what to do instead.

You gave them a confusing name.

Names with sharp, recognizable starts will easily grab your pup's attention. Shutterstock

Even play biting can be a bad habit for your dog to pick up. Yurii Vasyliev/Shuttershock

Tug-of-war is a confusing game for your dog to learn. Shutterstock

Make your dog's commands as clear and easy to follow as possible. Martin Christopher Parker/Shuttershock

Stay predictable with the house rules you enforce. fStop Images - Winnie Au/Getty Images

Instead of soothing your pet, address the source of their fear. Shutterstock

Make sure none of your dogs feel robbed of attention. The Washington Post/Getty Images

You dog won't realize that what you're reprimanding them for happened hours ago. K Quinn Ferris/Shuttershock

Don't give your dog their treat before they fully complete their command. Alexandr Jitarev/Shuttershock

Don't force your dog into uncomfortable situations. elbud/Shuttershock

It's not helpful to punish your dog for their animal instincts. Will Rodrigues/Shuttershock