There are plenty of supposed ‘facts’ about our four-legged friends that are simply not true – or half true.
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Veterinary expert Dr Linda Simon, from pet wellness brand Pooch & Mutt, has debunked 15 of the most common myths and misconceptions about our beloved pets.
Here’s what she had to say.
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9. Dogs can only see in black & white
False! Whilst dogs cannot see as many shades as humans they can see much more than black and white. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
10. Certain breeds are naturally more aggressive than others
There’s no denying that certain breeds are more prone to aggression and dominant or guarding behaviours. Breeds like the Cane Corso and Rottweiler were specifically bred to guard property and fend off threats. However, any breed can become aggressive just as any breed can also be trained to not be aggressive, so a dog's temperament is mostly down to its owners and the way they have handled and trained their dog. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
11. Dog years go up in multiples of 7 except it's 10 in their first year
This is a really simplified version and it actually depends on the breed and lifestyle of the dog. A 10-year-old chihuahua is middle-aged, while a 10-year-old Great Dane is a very elderly senior, so whilst their age might be the same, they are in fact, at very different stages of their life. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
12. Dogs lick you because they like you
Sometimes true. Most often dogs will lick to communicate or to ‘taste’ you to see where you’ve been. However, some do it as a form of affection, especially if their owner makes them feel that it is something they enjoy. Photo: Canva/Getty Images