10 Common Dog Training Myths That Make Training Harder
updated: March 14, 2026
When it comes to dogs, well-meaning advice is everywhere — from friends and family to television personalities and social media. Unfortunately, much of it is outdated, misunderstood, or simply incorrect.
Understanding how dogs think and learn can make life easier for both you and your dog. Let’s take a closer look at 10 common myths about dogs that deserve to be put to rest.
Myth 1: Dogs Are Trying to Be the Alpha
Myth:
Dogs are constantly trying to dominate their humans and become the “alpha” in the household.
Reality
Wolves are wild animals, dogs are domesticated.; while sharing the same ancestry, 15000 years of domestication lead to very different behaviors.
The “alpha dog” idea came from early studies of captive wolves. Later research on wolves in the wild showed that packs function more like families than dominance hierarchies.
Even the scientist who popularized the term “alpha wolf,” biologist David Mech, later clarified that the concept had been misunderstood and no longer accurately reflects wolf behavior.
Dogs also diverged from wolves thousands of years ago through domestication. Over 15,000 years, dogs evolved to live alongside humans, forming strong social bonds with people in ways wolves do not.
Despite the evidence, the “alpha dog” idea remains deeply embedded in popular dog training advice.
What to Do Instead
Rather than thinking your dog needs to be dominated, focus on clear communication and reinforcement of desired behaviors. Dogs learn best when they understand what works and are rewarded for making good choices. Building trust, consistency, and positive learning experiences creates reliable behavior without the need for outdated dominance theories.
Myth 2: Littermate Syndrome Causes Behavior Problems
Myth:
Getting two puppies from the same litter will cause “littermate syndrome”, a condition where dogs become overly dependent on each other or develop behavorial problems.
Reality
There is no science to support littermate syndrome. To avoid issues treat each puppy as individual and don’t rely on them to raise each other.
“Littermate syndrome” is not a scientifically recognized behavioral condition, and there is no research linking behavioral problems directly to puppies from the same litter or of similar age.
When two puppies grow up doing everything together and aren’t given enough individual attention, training, and socialization, they can miss important opportunities to develop confidence and may struggle to build strong relationships with their human caregivers.
What to Do Instead
If you choose to raise two puppies together, you must invest extra time in their individual development.
This means providing separate training sessions, individual walks, and opportunities for each puppy to explore and learn independently. When each dog develops confidence and a strong bond with their human family, it becomes much easier for them to coexist peacefully.
With thoughtful training, socialization, and attention to each dog’s needs, two puppies from the same litter can absolutely grow into well-adjusted adult dogs.
Myth 3: Pit Bulls Are the Most Dangerous Dog Breed
Myth:
Pit Bulls are inherently more dangerous than other dog breeds and pose a greater risk to people.
Reality
Don’t judge this breed based on what you might have heard. The Pitbull cannot lock their jaw, nor do they bite harder than any the average dog.
Several popular breeds—including the Doberman Pinscher, German Shepherd, and Rottweiler—have faced breed restrictions or bans at different points in time. Today, however, breed-specific legislation most often targets dogs labeled as “Pit Bulls.”
Much of the fear surrounding Pit Bulls is fueled by persistent myths.
One widely repeated claim is that Pit Bulls can lock their jaws. In reality, no dog breed has a jaw-locking mechanism. Unlike reptiles such as alligators or crocodiles, dogs do not have anatomical structures that allow their jaws to lock.
Another common belief is that Pit Bulls have an unusually powerful bite. Research does not support this claim. Bite force varies widely among individual dogs, and the American Pit Bull Terrier falls within a typical range compared to many other breeds.
What to Do Instead
Rather than focusing on breed alone, it is more helpful to focus on responsible dog guardianship and safe interactions.
Learning to recognize dog body language, providing proper training and socialization, and supervising interactions between children and dogs are all key factors in preventing bites.
A dog’s behavior is shaped by many interacting factors, including learning, environment, genetics, and the individual dog. No single factor works in isolation.
Myth 4: Dogs Respect Dominance Hierarchies
Myth:
Dogs behave well when humans establish dominance and become the “pack leader”.
Reality
This dog’s body language (whale eye, high tail, body pushed backwards) indicate they are scared by the person’s display of dominance.
The idea that dogs rely on strict dominance hierarchies with humans became widely popular through television shows and early dog training culture. Trainers often advised people to project “calm-assertive energy” or physically dominate their dogs to establish leadership.
Modern behavioral science does not support this approach.
Dogs are not constantly trying to climb a social hierarchy. Instead, they repeat behaviors that work. For example, a dog may pull on the leash because it allows them to reach something interesting. Jumping on people may continue simply because the dog receives attention. In both cases, the dog achieves their objective.
What to Do Instead
Rather than attempting to dominate your dog, teach them what you want using positive reinforcement. It’s fast, effective, and fun because your dog is rewarded for making good choices.
By teaching alternative behaviors and maintaining consistent expectations, dogs learn how to succeed in their environment.
Punishment-based techniques such as forcing a dog onto their back (often called an “alpha roll”) or using aversive tools may temporarily suppress behavior, but they do not teach the dog what to do instead and can increase fear or stress.
Some dog breeds have such strong prey drive that their instinct to chase or kill small animals cannot be controlled.
Myth 5: Certain Breeds Have an Uncontrollable Prey Drive
Myth:
Some dog breeds have such a strong prey drive that their instinct to chase or kill small animals cannot be controlled.
Reality
Often labelled as high prey dogs, the Labrador and the Australian Shepherd are preying nothing. Instead these dogs chase after each other and the purple Puller dog toy.
The term “prey drive” is often used to describe a dog’s natural tendency to stalk, chase, grab, and sometimes kill prey. These behaviors are part of the canine predatory sequence.
Through domestication and selective breeding, humans have emphasized or reduced different parts of this sequence in various breeds. For example, Labrador Retrievers often enjoy chasing and retrieving balls, while Australian Shepherds may instinctively herd family members or other animals. In both cases, the behavior reflects selected working traits rather than a full predatory sequence.
Labeling these dogs as having “high prey drive” can be misleading. In many cases, their instinctive behaviors are manageable, redirectable, and reflect traits that were intentionally developed to help humans with tasks such as herding livestock or retrieving game.
What to Do Instead
Rather than trying to suppress your dog’s natural instincts, provide appropriate outlets for them.
Different parts of the predatory sequence can be redirected into healthy activities:
· Eyeing: Provide a calm vantage point or place to settle and reward relaxed observation.
· Chasing: Activities like flyball, Fast CAT, or lure coursing allow dogs to safely channel their desire to run.
· Herding: Herding balls or large jolly balls can provide a constructive outlet for dogs with herding instincts.
By recognizing your dog’s natural tendencies and giving them safe ways to express those behaviors, you can prevent frustration and encourage more appropriate outlets.
Myth 6: Dog Trainers are Licensed
Myth:
Dog trainers must complete formal education or licensing before working with clients and their dogs.
Reality
Brooke attends a CATCH Behavior case workshop at St. Huberts Animal Welfare Center in Madison, NJ
In the United States, the dog training industry is largely unregulated. Unlike professions such as cosmetology, massage therapy, plumbing, or real estate—where practitioners must meet licensing standards—most dog trainers can begin offering services without formal education or certification in canine behavior.
Some trainers pursue extensive education in animal behavior and learning theory, while others rely on outdated techniques, misinformation, or have no formal education in how dogs think and learn.
What to Do Instead
When choosing a trainer, look for professionals who have invested in continuing education and recognized credentials such as CPDT (Certified Professional Dog Trainer) or CBCC (Certified Behavior Consultant Canine).
These certifications demonstrate a commitment to professional standards, ethics, and evidence-based training methods.
Reputable trainers are transparent about their qualifications, training philosophy, and methods. They prioritize humane, evidence-based approaches that focus on teaching dogs what to do rather than relying on punishment, and they participate in continuing education to stay current with modern behavioral science.
Taking the time to research a trainer’s education, credentials, and experience can make a significant difference in your dog’s training experience and long-term wellbeing.
Myth 7: Dogs Act Out in Spite or Revenge
This Beagle uses an appeasement gestures (averting gaze) while their owner is scolds them for eliminating on the floor.
Myth:
Dogs misbehave out of spite, revenge, or stubbornness.
Reality
Dogs do not have the cognitive ability to plan revenge or intentionally act out of spite. Instead, they respond to their environment and repeat behaviors that have been reinforced or that meet their needs.
Many people believe their dog looks “guilty” after doing something wrong. In reality, dogs are highly skilled at reading human body language and emotional cues. When you appear upset or angry, your dog may respond by avoiding eye contact, lowering their body, or exposing their belly. These gestures are often mistaken for a “guilty look,” but they are appeasement behaviors meant to reduce tension.
Importantly, dogs cannot connect punishment to something that happened hours earlier. If a dog chews a shoe or has a potty accident while you are away, they will not understand why they are being scolded when you return home.
What to Do Instead
Reframing what people often describe as naughty, stubborn, or spiteful behavior is important, because it helps you focus on identifying the underlying cause.
Many common issues—such as destructive chewing, house soiling, or attention-seeking behaviors—are often related to unmet needs, lack of supervision, or insufficient training.
By managing the environment, reinforcing appropriate behaviors, and teaching clear alternatives, you can help your dog learn what works and prevent unwanted behaviors from developing in the first place.
Myth 8: A Wagging Tail Always Means a Happy Dog
Myth:
If a dog is wagging their tail, it means they are happy and safe to approach.
Reality
Although wagging their tail, this dog appears extremely uncomfortable with this hard eyes and closed mouth.
The wagging of a dog's tail does not always mean they are happy or comfortable. Just like a human smile, a wagging tail can reflect a range of emotions.
Sometimes a wagging tail signals excitement or friendliness. Other times, it may indicate uncertainty, tension, or heightened arousal. The speed, height, and stiffness of the wag can all provide clues about how the dog is feeling.
Because tail wagging can communicate different emotions, it is important to look at the dog’s entire body language rather than focusing on the tail alone. Signals such as ear position, body posture, facial expression, and movement patterns all help tell the full story of how a dog is feeling. For example, a dog wagging their slowly tail while holding their body stiff, staring, or backing away signals discomfort rather than friendliness.
What to Do Instead
Instead of relying solely on a wagging tail to interpret a dog’s mood, take time to observe the dog’s overall body language and behavior.
Teaching children that dog communication goes beyond tail wagging can help them better understand when a dog feels comfortable and when they may need space. Developing this awareness helps protect both children and dogs, reducing the risk of misunderstandings that can lead to bites.
Myth 9: You Should Let Your Puppy Cry It Out at Night
Myth:
If a puppy cries during the night, the best approach is to ignore them and let them “cry it out.”
Reality
This puppy is stressed out and shouldn’t be left to cry it out.
When your puppy first arrives in their forever home, it is completely normal for them to cry at bedtime. Just hours earlier, they were sleeping beside their littermates and mother, surrounded by familiar sounds and smells.
Suddenly they find themselves alone in a new environment with unfamiliar people, sounds, and routines. Crying is simply a puppy’s way of expressing distress and seeking comfort.
Allowing a puppy to cry for long periods does not teach independence. Instead, it increases stress and makes the transition to a new home more difficult.
What to Do Instead
Helping your puppy feel safe during the first few nights will make the adjustment much smoother.
Rather than placing your puppy in a distant room, keep them close to you while they settle in. I recommend positioning your puppy’s crate or sleeping area next to your bed so they can hear and smell you nearby.
This simple adjustment reassures your puppy and helps them relax more quickly, making bedtime easier for everyone.
Myth 10: A Tired Dog is a Well Behaved Dog
Myth:
If your dog has behavior problems, the solution is to tire them out with more exercise.
Reality
Chip enjoys time at the beach, walking on the sand and sniffing the smells of the sea.
The phrase “a tired dog is a good dog” is often repeated in dog training advice. While physical activity is important, exhaustion is not the same as healthy regulation.
An overtired dog like an overtired child or adult has less patience, lower impulse control, and a harder time settling down. Instead of behaving better, an overtired dog becomes more irritated and restless.
Dogs require a surprising amount of rest. Most adult dogs need roughly 14–16 hours of sleep per day, while puppies need 16–18 hours of rest and sleepto support healthy development.
What to Do Instead
Rather than trying to out-exercise a four-legged athlete with the stamina of an Olympian, aim to create a healthy balance of rest, mental enrichment, and appropriate exercise.
Enrichment activities that engage your dog’s brain like food puzzles, scent games, training exercises, or enrichment activities are more effective at helping dogs relax and feel satisfied than simply adding more physical exercise.
If you’re looking for ideas, explore some of our enrichment articles to help provide your dog with healthy outlets for both their body and mind.
Conclusion: Dogs Need Science
Dogs rely on us to understand the world they live in. When outdated myths guide our decisions, it can lead to confusion, frustration, and unnecessary stress for both dogs and their guardians.
By learning how dogs think, communicate, and learn, we can replace myths with knowledge and build stronger relationships with our canine companions.
If you found this article helpful, consider sharing it with another dog lover. The more people understand dogs, the better life becomes for the animals who depend on us.
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Common Questions About Dog Training Myths
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The term “alpha dog” is outdated. Modern behavioral science has shown that dogs do not form dominance hierarchies with humans. The concept originated from early studies of captive wolves and does not accurately describe how dogs think or learn.
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Resource guarding is usually driven by anxiety about losing something valuable, not social rank. Because the behavior is rooted in emotion, it requires thoughtful behavior modification rather than confrontation.
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Many trainers recommend waiting until your first dog is confident and well trained before bringing home another puppy. In many cases this means waiting six to twelve months or longer.
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Yes, but it often requires structured separation and individual training to help each dog develop confidence and independence.
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Dogs don’t need a dominant leader. They learn through clear communication, consistent rules, and reinforcement of behaviors that work.
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No. Dogs of every breed learn most effectively through positive reinforcement and clear guidance rather than dominance-based methods.
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What looks like guilt is usually a dog responding to human body language. These appeasement behaviors are meant to reduce tension, not admit wrongdoing.
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Positive reinforcement training focuses on teaching dogs what to do rather than punishing mistakes. Decades of behavioral research show that dogs learn faster and with less stress when desired behaviors are rewarded. This approach builds trust, improves communication, and leads to more reliable long-term results.
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