10 Cute Things Dogs Do That Are Actually Dangerous
As much as we adore our dogs, some of their behaviors can come with unexpected risks. It’s not uncommon for a cute moment to turn into a potential hazard in a snap of a finger. Dogs often engage in activities that may not be as safe as they seem. It could be anything from innocent playfulness to curious explorations. Understanding these behaviors is key to keeping our pets healthy and happy. So, let’s take a closer look at some adorable things dogs do that might actually be more dangerous than they appear.
Begging for Food
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It’s not easy to resist those puppy-dog eyes when your dog begs for food. But feeding them human food isn’t always safe. Many foods we eat, like chocolate, grapes, and onions, are toxic to dogs and can make them very sick. It’s best to stick to dog treats and keep harmful foods out of reach.
Chasing Their Tail
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You’ve probably seen your dog spinning in circles, trying to catch their tail. It’s cute, right? But this behavior can actually be dangerous. Dogs can hurt themselves by straining muscles or injuring their spine from all that spinning. If you notice your dog doing this a lot, it might be time to redirect their energy elsewhere.
Eating Grass
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The sight of a dog grazing on grass like a little cow can be oddly endearing. But not all grass is safe. Lawns are often treated with pesticides or herbicides that can harm your dog. Plus, grass can host parasites like hookworms. If your dog frequently eats grass, it might be trying to soothe an upset stomach, which is something you shouldn’t ignore.
Sticking Their Head Out of Car Windows
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Dogs love the sensation of wind in their fur, and we love seeing their happy faces as they lean out of car windows. However, this habit can expose them to flying debris, dust, or even insects that could injure their eyes or nose. Worse, an abrupt stop or sharp turn could result in a dangerous fall. A secured harness or a dog seat belt is a safer option.
Barking at Everything
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Barking might seem like just a way for dogs to communicate, but excessive barking can lead to stress for both dogs and their owners. This stress can result in destructive behaviors or health issues over time. If your dog barks too much, consider training techniques or distractions to help calm them down.
Rolling in Smelly Things
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Dogs have a knack for rolling in things that smell terrible—like garbage or animal droppings! While it may seem funny, this behavior can expose them to harmful bacteria and parasites. These can lead to infections or skin irritations. If your dog rolls in something gross, give them a bath right away!
Digging
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Many dogs love to dig in the yard or garden. While it might seem like harmless fun, digging can cause injuries like torn nails or cuts from sharp objects hidden underground. Plus, if they dig under fences, they could escape and get lost! Providing mental stimulation and exercise can help reduce this behavior.
Licking Everything
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Dogs love to lick everything around them, including people! While it may feel affectionate, their mouths carry bacteria that can be harmful. If they lick an open wound on you or themselves, it could lead to infections. It’s a good idea to discourage excessive licking and keep an eye on where their tongues go.
Chasing After Cars
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It’s a natural instinct for dogs to chase after cars when they see one moving. This behavior is very dangerous! Not only could they get hit by a car, but they could also cause accidents for drivers trying to avoid them. Keeping your dog on a leash during walks is essential for their safety.
Swimming Without Supervision
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Many dogs love splashing around in the water on hot days. But not all dogs are great swimmers. Some breeds struggle in water more than others do. Without supervision, they could tire out quickly or even drown. Always keep an eye on your dog when they’re near water to ensure their safety.
Chewing on Household Items
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Dogs love chewing on various objects around the house—shoes, furniture, you name it! While chewing may seem harmless at first, it can be dangerous if dogs ingest materials like rubber or plastic, which could cause blockages in their digestive systems. Providing appropriate chew toys can help satisfy this instinct safely.
Being Overly Affectionate with Strangers
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A dog’s excitement around strangers can seem friendly and harmless. However, not everyone feels comfortable with this enthusiasm. If a dog gets too close, it might make someone uneasy or even defensive. This could lead to misunderstandings or unintended reactions.
Playing with Sticks
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Dogs carrying or chewing on sticks is a classic image, but sticks aren’t the safest toys. They can splinter into sharp fragments that injure a dog’s mouth, throat, or digestive system if swallowed. Opting for durable, dog-safe toys is a better way to satisfy their urge to fetch or chew.
Tilting Their Heads
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Dogs tilt their heads in a way that looks curious and attentive, melting hearts everywhere. While this behavior usually poses no issues, frequent or one-sided tilting often signals a problem. It could point to an ear infection, balance trouble, or another underlying condition. Take your dog to the vet if you notice this happening often to ensure their health stays on track.
Excessive Tail Wagging
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A wagging tail usually means a happy dog, but too much wagging can sometimes lead to a condition called “happy tail syndrome.” This happens when a dog wags its tail so vigorously against hard surfaces that it becomes injured or starts bleeding. If this happens frequently, consider creating a safer environment for their tail-wagging excitement.