A vet has shared three of the most common ‘mistakes’ he sees dog owners continually making – and they could have serious repercussions for your dog’s health
A vet has highlighted three frequent “mistakes” he witnesses among dog owners, and has called upon people to be aware of them before they escalate into more serious issues. Choosing to get a dog is an enormous decision that triggers a substantial lifestyle transformation.
While dogs bring numerous benefits to their owners’ lives, they also come with considerable responsibility. Lots of people seek advice and guidance via social media regarding pet ownership and, fortunately, there’s a wealth of professionals eager to share their expert knowledge and experiences with the public online.
Dr Amir Anwary is a well-known veterinarian who’s accumulated hundreds of thousands of likes on TikTok through his regular video content where he provides his expertise and insight.
In a recent video series published on the popular video sharing platform, he’s been determined to highlight the “most common mistakes” he observes dog owners committing, and the detrimental effect this can have on a pet’s health and wellbeing.
‘Inconsistent training’
Dr Anwary began with the issues that emerge with “inconsistent” training, which can lead to confusion, anxiety and stress in a dog.
He explained: “Your dog will do something that you don’t like or disapprove of and you will then say, ‘no, stop, bad boy’.
“Then, two days later, they’ll do the same thing but because you’re in a more chilled out mood, you’ll be okay with it and then the next day, you’ll shout at them for the same thing.”
Dr Anwary continued: “Guys, you can’t do that. Dogs have the mind of a two-year-old child, you can’t chop and change when something’s okay and when it’s not based on your mood.”
The vet emphasised how crucial it is to maintain consistency with your pet, ensuring they understand which behaviours are acceptable and which are not.
‘Ignoring dental care’
The vet explained this problem is something he often sees in his surgery, with dogs arriving with “severe” oral hygiene problems resulting from inadequate dental care.
Dr Anwary said: “It’s almost so common that it’s laughable. Many owners are not doing anything to take care of their dogs’ teeth and when your dogs get dirty teeth, they get gingivitis which is inflammation of the gums and that’s really uncomfortable for them to have to deal with.”
He said if you find it difficult to brush your dogs’ teeth, or they won’t permit it, then “at least use a dental powder” – although brushing remains the “gold standard” of dental care.
‘Dismissing symptoms’
Finally, the vet explained how “dismissing symptoms” can affect a dog’s wellbeing and, in some instances, their lifespan.
He began: “Now, this is important – dismissing symptoms as normal behaviour. I see this so often.”
Dr Anwary provided examples, such as “older dogs” no longer managing to keep pace on a walk or becoming fatigued more quickly.
This is frequently overlooked by owners who “assume” it’s down to their pet’s age but it could be a sign of “congestive heart failure”.
Similarly, persistent nibbling or scratching at their paws might indicate allergies requiring treatment, while continual licking of their paw could be overlooked because “dogs lick” but the vet cautioned it could actually be due to arthritis pain in that particular joint.
The vet encouraged owners to have any “weird” or unusual behaviours examined, and even suggested “Googling it” initially – provided any symptoms are investigated and not “dismissed”.
Dogs are a serious commitment. Training is vital, and not all dogs are appropriate for first-time owners.
If you’re planning to welcome a dog into your home, think about the advantages of adopting a puppy or dog from a charity or local rescue centre rather than purchasing from a breeder.
