5 Behaviour Myths That Could Be Holding Your Dog Back
- Deb from Busy Pawz
- Jun 18
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 24
Let’s be honest - dog training advice can feel like a never-ending scroll of conflicting tips, outdated ideas, and well-meaning but unhelpful opinions. It’s no wonder so many dog owners feel stuck, frustrated, or like they’ve somehow “broken” their dog.
The problem is, a lot of what we believe about dog behaviour is based on myths - ideas that might sound logical but actually get in the way of progress.
Let’s bust five of the big ones that could be holding your dog (and you!) back.
MYTH 1: “They’re doing it to be naughty... or stubborn”
This one makes me cringe because it places blame on the dog instead of looking at the why behind their behaviour.
Dogs aren’t trying to annoy you, embarrass you, or make your life harder. They’re communicating. Maybe they’re overwhelmed. Maybe they’re bored. Maybe they’ve just never learned what to do instead.
If your dog is barking, chewing, jumping, or digging - there’s always a reason. When we stop labelling it as “naughty” and start getting curious, that’s when change begins.
MYTH 2. “You have to show them who’s boss.”
Ah, the old dominance myth. It’s been hanging around like a bad smell for decades, but modern science has made it clear: dogs aren’t trying to take over your household.
You don’t need to alpha roll, assert dominance, or be the “pack leader” in the way this myth suggests.
What your dog needs is calm, consistent guidance and a relationship built on trust. You don’t have to be a boss - you just have to be a great teacher.
MYTH 3. “My dog is just stubborn.”
This one breaks my heart, because it usually comes from a place of deep frustration.
If your dog isn’t responding to training, it’s not because they’re being difficult on purpose. It might be that they’re confused, overstimulated, lacking motivation, or even feeling unsafe.
Progress starts when we meet our dogs where they’re at. Use rewards that truly matter to your dog, simplify the ask, and build from there. Stubbornness is usually just a mismatch between communication and understanding.
MYTH 4. “Once they’re ‘bad,’ they stay that way.”
Nope. Dogs are incredibly capable of change, no matter their age or background.
I’ve worked with dogs who’ve been rehomed multiple times, dogs with trauma, dogs who’ve been labelled “too far gone” - and they’ve all made progress with the right approach.
Behaviour is not fixed. It’s fluid. Your dog’s brain is constantly learning and adapting. The most powerful thing you can do is believe that change is possible and back that up with consistent, compassionate training.
MYTH 5. “You should ignore bad behaviour and reward good.”
There’s some truth to this… but it’s not the full picture.
Ignoring behaviour doesn’t make it go away - it just leaves your dog confused. Yes, we absolutely want to reward the good stuff, but we also need to teach our dogs what not to do in a way that’s kind and effective.
This might mean using management tools (like baby gates or long lines), redirecting to a better choice, or gently interrupting a behaviour and offering an alternative. It’s not about punishment - it’s about clarity.
Final Thoughts: You’re Probably Doing More Than You Think
If you’ve ever believed one of these myths, you’re not alone. Most of us have at some point! But letting go of these outdated ideas is one of the kindest things you can do for your dog - and for yourself.
Your dog isn’t broken. They don’t need to be dominated, fixed, or labelled. They need support, understanding, and a training plan that actually makes sense for who they are.
You’re allowed to start fresh today. And if you ever need help finding the way forward, I’m here to help.
Thanks for reading!
And as always…
Throw your dog a treat from us!
Deb & the Busy Pawz Crew xo
🎧 P.S. Prefer to listen on the go? This blog is also available as a podcast episode! If you’d rather hear me chat through these myths (with a few extra stories and examples), grab your headphones and tune in.
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