There are plenty of supposed ‘facts’ about our four-legged friends that are simply not true – or half true.
Veterinary expert Dr Linda Simon, from pet wellness brand Pooch & Mutt, has debunked 15 of the most common myths and misconceptions about our beloved pets.
Here’s what she had to say.
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Here’s what she had to say.
5. Only happy, healthy dogs get ‘the zoomies’
This is not true, any dog can get zoomies. Often, those with underlying behaviour issues and anxiety tend to get them more. Similarly, those who are provided with less mental and physical stimulation are more likely to burn off excess energy with a case of the zoomies. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
6. Dogs bury high-value treats because they think they’ll be taken away
Yes, this is true and it is actually a survival skill that wild dogs used long before they became pets. Burying it meant they’d have food for later and other dogs or predators could not take it from them. This is now replicated in domesticated dogs, as they will hide treats they consider to be of high value in fear that they will be taken away from them. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
7. If your dog eats grass it means they are sick
This is not always the case! Yes, it is true that sometimes when a dog feels nauseous or has excess stomach acid, they may eat grass to induce vomiting, but eating grass doesn't always mean they feel unwell. During the summer months, the grass actually just tastes nice to our pooches, so they will often eat it simply because they enjoy it. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
8. If your dog's nose is dry it means they are unhealthy
A dry nose definitely does not always mean that there is something wrong with your dog health wise, in fact, a dry nose is quite common in older dogs. A better way to keep an eye on your dog's health is by checking their gums, if they seem dry or pale, this is a far clearer indication of underlying health issues. Photo: Canva/Getty Images