5 Common Mistakes Dog Owners Make (And How to Avoid Them)

 

We all want to do the best for our dogs. But the truth is, even the most caring owners (yes, that includes us!) make mistakes sometimes. Dogs don’t come with an instruction manual, and there’s so much advice out there that it can feel overwhelming.

The good news? A few small changes can make a huge difference to your dog’s health and happiness. Here are five mistakes many dog owners make – and how to fix them.

1. Giving too many treats

We know. Those eyes are impossible to resist. But it’s easy to go overboard, and too many treats can quickly lead to weight gain or upset tummies. It’s not just about how many treats you give, but also what’s in them. Cheaper treats often have fillers, sugar, and artificial colours that aren’t great for dogs.

The fix is simple: keep treats to about ten percent of their daily calories and pay attention to the ingredients. Short, natural lists are always best. If you’re unsure, break larger treats in half or even smaller so you’re not overfeeding.

2. Forgetting about mental exercise

Walks are great, but dogs need more than just physical exercise. They also need to use their brains. Without mental stimulation, dogs can become bored, frustrated, and even destructive.

Try hiding treats around the house and letting your dog sniff them out, or give them a puzzle toy or a stuffed Kong. Spending five minutes teaching a new trick is another easy way to engage their brain – even simple ones are exciting for them.

3. Walking the same route every day

We all have a “usual” route we walk because it’s quick and familiar. But for dogs, that’s like watching the same TV episode on repeat – it gets a bit boring after a while.

Mix it up where you can. Take a different route, even if it’s just reversing the usual one, or explore a new park, field, or footpath when you have more time. Letting your dog lead the way occasionally is another great way to keep things fresh and fun.

 

4. Ignoring dental health

Dental problems are one of the biggest issues vets see, and they can be painful (and expensive). Plaque and tartar build up quickly, and most dogs don’t show they’re in pain until it’s really bad.

Brushing your dog’s teeth a few times a week makes a huge difference. Dental chews and toys that help clean their teeth are also great. And don’t forget to book regular vet check-ups – catching problems early can save a lot of discomfort later.

5. Forgetting to just “be” with them

Life is busy. It’s easy to treat dog care as another thing on the to-do list: feed, walk, done. But dogs need more than just the basics – they need quality time with you.

Try to take ten minutes every day to play, cuddle, or just sit quietly together. Put your phone down and be fully present with them. It might not feel like much to you, but to your dog, it means the world.

 

Final thought

No one is perfect, and every dog owner gets things wrong sometimes. But a few simple changes can make your dog’s life even better – and strengthen the bond you share.

If you’d like to surprise your dog with something truly special, our Rusty’s Pet Pantry boxes are filled with hand-picked toys and natural treats that will make their tail wag.