On social media, Will Atherton, a canine behaviorist, shared a video on TikTok about the biggest mistakes that pet owners usually make, with more than 6.5 million views.
In the video, he reveals two main things that lead to the distance between dogs and their bosses. Many social media users have been left stunned by the revelations.
Common mistakes pet owners make
Leaving food out for dogs
One major mistake Atherton points out is leaving food down for dogs all the time. He explains, “Not only are you missing out on a massive opportunity to help train your dog, but you’re also missing out on a massive opportunity to build a relationship with your dog, where all the best things in life come through you.”
Instead of leaving food out, Atherton suggests feeding dogs on a schedule and using small pieces of food to build familiarity and aid in training.
Another common mistake is accidentally reinforcing separation anxiety.
Atherton advises pet owners to leave and return home quietly and calmly. He warns against getting dogs hyped up or overly reassuring them when leaving or returning, as this can create separation anxiety.
“When you leave and when you return and leave your dog alone, go and come back quietly and calmly. Stop getting your dog so hyped up, telling them that everything’s going to be okay, and leave,” Will said.
“Stop getting hyped up and telling them how much you’ve missed them when you come home. You’re creating the separation anxiety,” Atherton added.
Social media reactions
The video has sparked a significant reaction on social media, with many users sharing their own experiences and opinions.
Supportive comments
Some users agreed with Atherton’s advice. One person commented, “He is exactly right. Feed your dogs at the same time every day. If they don’t eat the food, take it away. When you leave the house, just leave and say nothing. When you come home, give them a treat. It’s common sense.”
Another user added, “Puppies and babies should be treated roughly the same way. Always be there for them until they decide they can cope by themselves. Feed them at the same time every day, and leave a radio on if you’re out at work so they hear human voices.”
While some support his methods, others strongly disagree.
Although some people totally agree with Will’s concept, there are many dissatisfying comments in this video.
However, not everyone agrees with Atherton’s methods. One user insisted, “Treats are for training. Food is for sustenance. My dog is and will continue to be a free feeder. That means I put food down in her bowl twice a day, and that is not a mistake.”
Another critic wrote, “This guy uses aversive methods, thinks prong collars are okay, and has visibly made dogs uncomfortable in his videos to teach them. He should not be getting mainstream publicity.”
Will Atherton’s video has sparked a heated debate among pet owners about the best ways to care for and train their dogs.
Whether you agree with Atherton or not, his video has certainly brought attention to the importance of understanding and addressing common mistakes in pet ownership.
