10 Things Dogs Hate That Humans Do (And What to Do Instead) 

Dogs are loyal, social and endlessly eager to please. They lift our mood, ease our stress and give us a good reason to get outside and move. But sharing your life with a dog is a big responsibility, and part of that is understanding how your everyday habits look from where they sit. 

So, do dogs hate their owners? Not at all. Dogs form deep bonds with the people who care for them. That said, even the most devoted pup has a few things we do that they would happily skip. Some are unavoidable (hello, nail trims and the groomer), but plenty are easy to change once you know about them. 

Here are the 10 things dogs most commonly dislike, and some simple swaps that will make your dog’s day (and your bond) a lot better.

1. Ignoring their personal space

Just like us, dogs have personal boundaries. Many dogs do not enjoy tight hugs, face-grabbing or being cuddled when they would rather be left alone. Research on canine body language shows that dogs often use subtle signals such as lip licking, turning away or stiffening to say they are uncomfortable (Overall, 2013). If those signals are missed, some dogs may escalate to growling or snapping. 

Try this instead: Let your dog come to you for cuddles, and learn to read the early warning signs. A relaxed body, soft eyes and a loose wagging tail usually mean they are happy to hang out.

2. Yelling

Nobody enjoys being shouted at, and dogs are no different. Studies have found that harsh, confrontational training methods are linked to more fear-related and aggressive responses in dogs (Herron, Shofer and Reisner, 2009). A broader review also found that aversive methods can compromise a dog’s welfare (Ziv, 2017). 

Try this instead: Reward the behaviour you want to see. A tasty treat and a happy “good girl!” teach your dog far more than a raised voice ever will, and they keep your dog confident and willing to learn. 

If you are struggling with your dog’s behaviour, our team is here to help. Pop in for a chat by booking a Gold Standard Veterinary Care appointment or call us on 1300 DOC SAM (1300 362 726).

3. Strong smells

A dog’s nose is extraordinary. Although the exact figures vary between studies, a dog’s sense of smell is many thousands of times more sensitive than ours, thanks to specialised nasal anatomy and airflow (Craven, Paterson and Settles, 2010). That is brilliant for sniffing out snacks, but it also means that heavy perfumes, aerosol sprays, air fresheners and strong cleaning products can be overwhelming. 

Try this instead: Keep strong scents to a minimum around your dog, ventilate the room when you use sprays, and choose pet-friendly cleaning products where you can.

4. Feeling ignored or left alone too long

Dogs are social animals, and most crave time with their people. Long stretches of isolation can lead to boredom, distress and, in some dogs, separation-related problems such as destructive behaviour, excessive barking or toileting indoors (Sherman and Mills, 2008). 

Try this instead: Build in quality time every day, such as a long walk, a game of fetch or a cuddle on the couch. If you work long hours, consider doggy day care or a trusted dog sitter. Dog-friendly cafés are a great weekend treat for you both, too. 

If you are worried your dog may be struggling when home alone, we would love to help. Book a visit with the Southern Cross Vet team online or ring 1300 DOC SAM (1300 362 726) and let’s work out a plan together.

5. Changes to their routine

Dogs thrive on predictability. Regular mealtimes, walks, play and bedtimes help them feel safe and settled. A sudden shake-up, like a very late dinner or a skipped walk, can leave some dogs restless, anxious or more likely to act out. 

Try this instead: Aim for a consistent daily rhythm. When life does force a change, introduce it gradually so your dog has time to adjust.

6. Being forced to socialise

Dogs have their own friends and their own dislikes. Pushing your dog to meet or play with a person or another dog they are unsure about can cause stress, and may lead to barking, snapping or biting. 

Try this instead: Let your dog set the pace. Choose playmates they get along with, give them space to retreat, and never punish them for showing that they are uncomfortable. Early, positive socialisation during puppyhood makes a big difference, so keep it calm and rewarding.

7. Cutting their sniffing time short

For dogs, a walk is not just exercise. It is the daily newspaper. Dogs learn about the world mostly through scent, and sniffing gives them a rich picture of who has passed by and what is happening in the neighbourhood (Horowitz, 2009). A walk where your dog is rushed along on a short, tight lead can leave them frustrated. 

Try this instead: Make time for “sniffari” walks where your dog can slow down and explore. Even ten minutes of unhurried sniffing can be mentally tiring in the best possible way.

8. Dressing them up

That tiny raincoat or Halloween costume might look adorable, but many dogs find clothing restrictive and strange. Outfits can limit movement, trap heat and interfere with the body language dogs use to communicate. Some dogs tolerate it, but few genuinely enjoy it. 

Try this instead: Save outfits for the occasions when they are truly needed, such as a well-fitted coat for a short-haired dog in cold weather. Make sure your dog is comfortable, and take it off if they seem unhappy.

9. Blowing in their faces

It might seem like harmless fun, but most dogs dislike a sudden puff of air on their face. It can startle them, make them flinch and, in some cases, prompt a defensive reaction. Their faces are packed with sensitive whiskers and a very sensitive nose, so it is best to avoid it altogether. 

Try this instead: Show affection in ways dogs enjoy, such as gentle chest or shoulder scratches, a favourite game or a tasty chew. 

10. Waking them suddenly

Dogs need plenty of quality sleep, and being jolted awake can leave them confused and defensive, especially older dogs who may sleep more deeply or have reduced hearing. A sudden poke or shake can lead to a startled snap, even from the sweetest dog. 

Try this instead: Wake your dog gently by calling their name softly from a short distance. Give them a moment to come around before you pat them, and keep young children from disturbing a sleeping dog. 

When a dislike is actually a health problem 

Sometimes a change in your dog’s behaviour is not about preference at all. A dog who suddenly snaps when touched, hides, avoids their usual routine or seems unusually irritable may be in pain or unwell. Behaviour changes can be an early sign of medical issues, so it is always worth having your dog checked by a vet before assuming it is purely behavioural (Overall, 2013). 

Regular check-ups and up-to-date vaccinations are one of the best ways to keep your dog happy and healthy. You can learn more about protecting your pup on our dog vaccinations page, or book your dog’s vaccination with us and experience the Southern Cross Vet difference. 

The bottom line 

Your dog does not hate you. They simply see the world differently, and a few small changes on our side can make a big difference to how safe, relaxed and loved they feel. Respect their space, keep your voice kind, protect their routine and let them sniff to their heart’s content. 

Ready to give your best mate the care they deserve? Call us on 1300 DOC SAM (1300 362 726), visit scvet.com.au/book to arrange your appointment. To learn more about our clinic, visit the Southern Cross Vet home page. 

This article is general information only and does not replace personalised advice from a registered veterinarian. If you have concerns about your dog’s health or behaviour, please speak to your vet. 

By Dr Sam Kovac BVSc (Merit) 

Dr Sam followed his dream of becoming a veterinary surgeon, which began at age three. Since then, he has developed a strong interest in oncology, internal medicine and animal behaviour. Dr Sam continues his passion for providing the most up-to-date care to his patients and their two-legged family. 

References 

Craven, B.A., Paterson, E.G. and Settles, G.S. (2010) ‘The fluid dynamics of canine olfaction: unique nasal airflow patterns as an explanation of macrosmia’, Journal of the Royal Society Interface, 7(47), pp. 933-943. 

Herron, M.E., Shofer, F.S. and Reisner, I.R. (2009) ‘Survey of the use and outcome of confrontational and non-confrontational training methods in client-owned dogs showing undesired behaviors’, Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 117(1-2), pp. 47-54. 

Horowitz, A. (2009) Inside of a dog: what dogs see, smell, and know. New York: Scribner. 

Overall, K.L. (2013) Manual of clinical behavioral medicine for dogs and cats. St. Louis: Elsevier Mosby. 

Sherman, B.L. and Mills, D.S. (2008) ‘Canine anxieties and phobias: an update on separation anxiety and noise aversions’, Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 38(5), pp. 1081-1106. 

Ziv, G. (2017) ‘The effects of using aversive training methods in dogs: a review’, Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 19, pp. 50-60.