We all remember the days when dogs roamed free in the neighborhood, slept in the backyard, and ate whatever scraps were left after dinner. But as our understanding of these loyal companions has grown, it’s become clear that some of the ways we treated dogs back in the day weren’t just outdated—they were downright harmful. Dogs have always been man’s best friend, and they deserve love, safety, and happiness. Let’s take a look at some old-school dog practices that we’ve left behind, and why we’re better for it.
1. Chaining Dogs Up Outside
Leaving dogs tethered to a chain for hours—or even days—used to be common, but it’s incredibly cruel. Dogs are social creatures that need interaction, not isolation. Being chained leaves them vulnerable to extreme weather, predators, and even mental health issues like anxiety.
2. Using Harsh Physical Punishments
A rolled-up newspaper or a swift swat may have been seen as a way to “teach a lesson,” but physical punishment damages trust and can make dogs fearful or aggressive. Training with kindness and patience is far more effective and strengthens the bond you share.
3. Feeding Table Scraps as Their Main Diet
Tossing dogs leftover steak bones or greasy scraps might seem generous, but it’s far from healthy. Many human foods are dangerous for dogs, and an unbalanced diet can lead to serious health problems. Quality dog food keeps them healthy and happy.
4. Leaving Dogs in the Backyard Full Time
Some folks used to think dogs were happiest with the run of the yard, but dogs thrive indoors with their families. Constantly being outside, especially in extreme heat or cold, can be lonely and unsafe for a dog.
5. Crop-Ear and Dock-Tail Practices
Back then, docking tails and cropping ears was about appearance or tradition. Today, these unnecessary surgeries are recognized as painful and inhumane. Dogs aren’t born needing cosmetic alterations—they’re perfect just the way they are.
6. Not Taking Dogs to the Vet Regularly
It wasn’t unusual for dogs to skip vet visits unless they were sick or injured. Preventative care, like vaccinations and checkups, helps dogs live longer, healthier lives. Today, routine vet care is part of responsible pet ownership.
7. Using Shock Collars or Choke Chains
Devices like shock collars and choke chains were marketed as training tools, but they cause pain and stress. Positive reinforcement training is a much kinder and more effective way to teach your pup good behavior.
8. Letting Dogs Ride Unrestrained in the Back of a Pickup Truck
It might have looked cool to have a dog riding in the open bed of a truck, but it’s incredibly dangerous. A sudden stop or sharp turn could send a dog flying out, risking injury or death. Secure restraints or letting them ride inside is much safer.
9. Skipping Proper Socialization
Many dogs back in the day weren’t socialized with other pets or new environments, leading to fearfulness or aggression. Introducing dogs to different people, places, and situations early on helps them grow into well-adjusted companions.
10. Using Muzzles to Keep Them Quiet
Some people resorted to muzzles to stop barking, but muzzles should only be used for short-term safety, not as a punishment. Constant barking is often a sign of stress or boredom that needs to be addressed with training or enrichment.
11. Ignoring Their Emotional Needs
Dogs were often seen as pets rather than family members, but they’re deeply emotional animals. They need affection, play, and companionship to feel secure. Ignoring these needs can leave a dog feeling neglected and unhappy.
12. Giving Them as Gifts Without Planning
Surprising someone with a dog as a gift might seem thoughtful, but it often led to dogs being neglected or abandoned when the recipient wasn’t ready for the responsibility. Dogs deserve homes where they’re truly wanted and cared for.
13. Assuming They Could “Tough It Out”
From enduring freezing nights outside to going without regular meals, the old-school belief that dogs could tough it out was harmful. Dogs rely on us for their care, and providing for their basic needs is non-negotiable.
14. Forcing Dogs to Stay Outside During Fireworks or Storms
Many people left their dogs outside during fireworks or storms, unaware of how terrifying these events are for animals. Today, we know they need comfort, quiet spaces, and reassurance during these stressful times.
Looking back, it’s clear that we’ve come a long way in understanding what it means to be a good pet parent. Treating dogs with the love, respect, and care they deserve is how we repay their unwavering loyalty to us. After all, they’re not just pets—they’re family.
