12 Weird Things Dog Owners Do (And Why They're Normal)
If you've ever caught yourself whispering sweet nothings to your dog in a voice you'd never use in public, you're not alone. According to an article by Dee Michaels for iHeartDogs.com, there are 12 "weird things" dog owners do that they try to keep secret. These behaviors range from silly nicknames to sneaking pups into places they shouldn't be. The article reassures readers that these habits are common and shared among dog lovers, so your "secret's safe." In fact, the article notes that non-dog-crazy friends would tease owners if they knew how they really treat their dogs, which is why these affectionate habits stay under wraps. Whether it's talking in a baby voice or letting your big dog hog your lap, these quirks reveal the deep bond between humans and their canine companions. So, if you've ever made up an excuse to stay home with your pup or ordered a special treat at the drive-thru, read on—you're in good company.
Why Dog Owners Keep Their Quirky Habits Secret
Dog owners often hide their affectionate behaviors because they fear judgment from friends who aren't as dog-obsessed. According to iHeartDogs.com, non-dog-crazy friends would tease owners if they knew how they really treat their dogs. This fear of ridicule leads many to keep their quirky habits under wraps. For example, you might not want to admit that you refer to yourself as "Mommy" or "Daddy" when talking to your pup, or that you let your dog slobber all over your face. These behaviors are deeply personal and reveal a level of devotion that others might find excessive. But the article frames these actions as common and shared among dog owners, reassuring readers that their "secret's safe." The truth is, these habits are a natural expression of the bond between humans and dogs. They're not weird—they're normal. And while you might try to keep them secret, you're far from alone. In fact, many of the behaviors on the list are so universal that you'll likely recognize yourself in more than a few.
The 12 'Weird' Things Dog Owners Do (And Why They're Actually Normal)
According to iHeartDogs.com, the 12 "weird things" dog owners do include giving dogs a ton of weird nicknames, talking to them like "cute wittle baby-wabies," and referring to yourself as "Mommy" or "Daddy." Other habits include letting dogs slobber all over your face and baking special homemade dog cookies. The list also features letting your big dog sit in your lap because big dogs like to cuddle too, and figuring out ways to sneak dogs into non-dog-friendly places—joking that "you just have a barking purse." passing dogs food under the table despite knowing it's a bad habit made the list, as did ordering dogs a dog-friendly treat at restaurants or drive-thrus. letting your dog sleep in bed with you is another secret habit, with the article joking "everyone does it." Having conversations with your canine, who "talks back—in her own way," and making up excuses to bail on plans just to hang out with your dog round out the 12. These behaviors might seem odd to non-dog people, but they're actually normal expressions of love and companionship. The article emphasizes that these actions are common among dog owners, so there's no need to feel ashamed. Whether you're guilty of one or all 12, you're part of a community of devoted dog lovers who understand the joy of spoiling your pup.
Baby Talk and Nicknames: What Science Says About How Dogs Respond
If you've ever called your dog "Mushy Maggy Moo Moo" or "Snugz-a-rooni," you're not alone. According to iHeartDogs.com, giving dogs a ton of weird nicknames is a common habit among owners. These nicknames go far beyond common ones like "Sweetie" or "Fluffbutt"—as the article notes, "Fluffbutt" is only the beginning. But why do we do it? The article suggests that dogs actually prefer being talked to like babies. Yes, studies show dogs prefer that high-pitched, silly voice we use when saying "cute wittle baby-wabies." So, the next time you catch yourself cooing at your pup, know that science is on your side. This kind of talk strengthens the bond between owner and dog, and it's a behavior that many owners try to keep secret because it feels a bit embarrassing. But according to the article, it's completely normal and even beneficial. Referring to yourself as "Mommy" or "Daddy" is another related habit—think "Daddy loves you" or "Give Mommy kisses!" These phrases might sound silly to outsiders, but they're a natural part of how we communicate affection to our dogs. The article reassures that these behaviors are shared by many, so your secret is safe. So go ahead—embrace the baby talk and the colorful nicknames. Your dog loves it, and you're in good company.
Spoiling Your Pup: Homemade Treats, Drive-Thru Orders, and Table Scraps
When it comes to spoiling our dogs, many owners go the extra mile. According to iHeartDogs.com, baking dogs special homemade dog cookies is a common secret habit. The article even links to a guide on the "9 Best Homemade Dog Treats For Spoiling Your Pup," showing that this is a popular way to show love. But the spoiling doesn't stop at home. Ordering dogs a dog-friendly treat at restaurants or drive-thrus is another habit on the list. The article references a list of "37 Dog-Friendly Store And Restaurant Chains," making it easy to find places where your pup can get a special treat. And let's not forget passing dogs food under the table despite knowing it's a bad habit. Many owners are guilty of this, even though they know it encourages begging. These behaviors might be kept secret because they seem indulgent, but they're actually normal ways to show affection. The article frames these actions as common among dog owners, reassuring readers that they're not alone. Whether you're whipping up a batch of homemade biscuits or ordering a pup cup at the drive-thru, you're participating in a time-honored tradition of dog spoiling. So don't feel guilty—your secret's safe with us.
When Dog Devotion Takes Over: Sneaking Pups In and Canceling Plans
Sometimes, our love for our dogs leads us to do things we might not want to admit. According to iHeartDogs.com, figuring out ways to sneak dogs into non-dog-friendly places is one such habit. The article jokes that "you just have a barking purse," highlighting the lengths owners will go to keep their pups by their side. Another sign of devotion is making up excuses to bail on plans just to hang out with your dog. This behavior, while secret, is common among dog owners who prefer their canine's company to social events. Letting your big dog sit in your lap because big dogs like to cuddle too is another habit that might raise eyebrows—especially if your "lap dog" weighs 80 pounds. And letting your dog sleep in bed with you is so common that the article jokes "everyone does it." These actions show just how much our dogs mean to us. They might seem extreme to non-dog people, but they're actually normal expressions of the bond we share with our pets. The article reassures readers that these behaviors are shared by many, so there's no need to feel embarrassed. Whether you're sneaking your pup into a store or canceling plans to stay home, you're not alone. Your secret's safe, and your dog loves you for it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these behaviors really that common? Yes, according to iHeartDogs.com, these 12 habits are widely shared among dog owners. The article emphasizes that many owners recognize themselves in the list, and the behaviors are normal expressions of the human-dog bond.
Is baby talk actually good for my dog? Research cited by iHeartDogs.com shows that dogs prefer high-pitched, baby-talk voices. This type of communication strengthens the bond between owner and dog, making it a beneficial habit rather than a silly one.
Should I feel guilty about feeding table scraps? While passing food under the table is a common habit, it's important to know it can encourage begging. The article acknowledges this as a "bad habit" but frames it as a normal way owners show affection. Moderation and awareness are key.
Why do dog owners hide these habits? Many owners fear teasing from non-dog-crazy friends who might not understand the depth of the bond. The article reassures that these habits are shared by many, so there's no need to feel ashamed.
Can spoiling my dog with homemade treats or drive-thru orders be part of a healthy diet? While spoiling is common, it's important to balance treats with a proper diet. For guidance on safe and healthy feeding, explore resources on dog nutrition and treat safety.
The Bottom Line
The 12 "weird things" dog owners do are anything but weird—they're heartfelt expressions of love and companionship. From baby talk to sneaking pups into stores, these habits reveal the deep bond we share with our dogs. According to iHeartDogs.com, these behaviors are common and shared among dog lovers, so your secret's safe. Embrace the quirks, spoil your pup responsibly, and know you're part of a community that understands the joy of dog ownership.
Source: iHeartDogs.com
