40 common mistakes you don't realize you're making with your dog, according to experts

"Tennis balls were made for tennis, not dog teeth. They actually can wear down teeth pretty badly,” said Nicole Ellis, who’s a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and pet lifestyle expert with Rover. Made from natural rubber with deep grooves that allow for airflow, “PetKore balls are made for dogs, [and] they don’t wear down teeth OR obstruct the airway." It’s also bouncy, durable, and suitable for indoor or outdoor play.

"Bully sticks are great, especially with young dogs who are developing their jaw strength and possibly losing teeth,” said Annie Grossman, dog trainer and author of How To Train Your Dog With Love and Science. “The only problem is that a dog can sometimes swallow that last bit of it, which can be trouble if it gets lodged in their gut. The solution is to put the bully stick into a holder, like the Bully Grip.” Made from non-toxic, chew-resistant rubber, “This is a simple, reusable puck-like device that holds the end so that it can't be swallowed."

Dogs should drink approximately 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight each day — but meeting that threshold isn’t easy when you’re on the go. Nicole Ellis (certified professional dog trainer and pet lifestyle expert for Rover) recommends this dog water bottle, which is leak-proof and fits in cup holders, but has a bowl that fills with water when you squeeze the bottle. “It comes on every hiking trip, car ride, and adventure,” said Ellis. “Easiest way to bring and offer water to my dogs."

"Even experienced dog owners underestimate how much daily reinforcement matters,” said Hayley Kenner, co-owner of Revival Dog Training. “One of the biggest mistakes we see is assuming a dog ‘already knows’ a skill, so the practice stops, and then people are surprised when manners fade over time." These tiny treats are great for ongoing reinforcement due to their small size and low-calorie, junk-free recipe made from chicken and bananas.

Nicole Ellis, certified professional dog trainer and pet lifestyle expert for Rover, notes that most dog owners over-manage their pets instead of teaching them skills: “Constantly pulling the leash, hovering, or correcting” — “Can we ask them to do something instead of correcting?” For example, rather than yelling at your dog for jumping on guests, Ellis recommends training them to sit on this dog platform. Its textured, elevated design helps them feel safe and focused, so you can curb begging, jumping, and barking.

Hidden fur around your home is a carrier for dander, bacteria, viruses, and mites, which can worsen allergies for both you and your pet. Nicole Ellis (certified professional dog trainer and a Rover pet lifestyle expert) loves “everything from Uproot,” because they’re “the BEST at getting pet hair off rugs, out of the car, and more.” This Uproot hair remover has a large head with grippy teeth to pull fur from non-knitted carpets and furniture in record time.

Contrary to popular belief, your washing machine doesn’t wash itself. Nicole Ellis, a certified professional dog trainer and pet lifestyle expert for Rover, recommends this brand with washing machine cleaner tablets specifically formulated for pet owners. Compatible with most units, they dissolve fur, remove odors, and dislodge dirt left behind in your machine’s drum, hoses, valves, and filters after you wash your dog’s items.

"Dogs also thrive with some version of a routine, and having them ‘do nothing’ or self-entertain should absolutely be part of that,” said Hayley Kenner, co-owner of Revival Dog Training. This daily schedule is great for getting a new puppy used to a routine, but you can also use it for an older dog or leave notes for the dog sitter. Each log book contains 100 pages where you can jot down times, activites, duration, and observations.

According to Andrew Bleiman (head of Tractive in North America), "Puzzle feeders, lick mats, and frozen KONG-style toys are fantastic because they keep dogs mentally engaged without needing constant human involvement." These lick mats have suction cups on the back to stick to floors and tubs, and flexible nubs on the front to hold peanut butter, yogurt, and wet food, keeping them happy and distracted during storms, grooming, or alone time. Since they’re made from BPA-free silicone, they’re also easy to clean in the dishwasher.

"One common mistake we see is overlooking everyday preventive care, especially when it comes to dental health,” said Dr. Ben Schroeder and Dr. Erin Schroeder (veterinarians and education partners for Wellness Pet Company), who recommend these Wellness Whimzees dental treats. Using natural ingredients formed into three different shapes, they are designed to freshen breath, clean gums, remove plaque, and fight tartar, all while your dog chews, plays, and enjoys.

“Oral disease is incredibly common in pets and often goes unnoticed until it starts affecting their comfort and overall health, but consistency matters more than perfection!” said Dr. Ben Schroeder and Dr. Erin Schroeder, veterinarians and education partners for Wellness Pet Company. These teeth-cleaning wipes offer an easier alternative to brushing: They slip over your finger for better control, they’re rinse-free for convenience, and they’re unscented with gentle ingredients that most cats and dogs don’t mind. Still, the dual-sided textures aim to remove plaque, support healthy gums, and prevent tartar buildup.

"Long leashes can solve a lot of issues,” said Annie Grossman, dog trainer and author of How To Train Your Dog With Love and Science, who recommends these extra-long braided leads. “I often suggest dog owners try a leash that is long enough that there can be slack in it when your dog is two or three feet away from you — a lot of pulling issues stem from people using leashes that are just too short. Constant tension creates an unintentional game of tug-of-war and can cause your dog to associate pressure with what's ahead — like other dogs or people — leading to reactivity.”

"An underrated tool that we recommend all the time is long lines for safe freedom or training recall,” said Hayley Kenner, co-owner of Revival Dog Training. “The thinner and more lightweight, the better! Long lines are super versatile and can be used for many different training exercises." This agility lead comes in a huge selection of colors and your choice of five lengths: 15, 20, 30, 50, and 100 feet. It’s lightweight, yet made from reinforced nylon with a nickel-plated swivel clip for durability and tangle resistance.

When you’re training your dog to stop pulling, you want their attention on you. “Practice in your home, take one step at a time, [and reward them] for being next to you. Start with no distractions, set your pup up for success. Then try just in front of your house,” said Nicole Ellis, a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and pet lifestyle expert with Rover. This drawstring pouch holds up to 2 cups of treats, so you can anchor their attention all throughout your walk. It also dispenses poop bags, has an adjustable belt for around-the-waist wear, and holds your keys and phone.

“Enzymatic cleaners like Rocco & Roxie are essential for accidents because they fully break down odor molecules, not just mask them,” said Hayley Kenner, co-owner of Revival Dog Training. Even though it tackles odors and stains from dirt, pee, poop, and vomit, it’s safe on just about any surface, including carpets, hard floors, furniture, clothing, bedding, kennels, and litter boxes.

“Growling, barking, or avoidance are communication — not bad behavior,” said Nicole Ellis, certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and pet lifestyle expert with Rover. As a result, punishing these behaviors can make the issue worse. This high-collar anxiety vest wraps your dog in a breathable mesh material from head to tail, applying gentle pressure to calm their nervous system. Use it during car trips, vet visits, thunderstorms, and firework shows.

You can also soothe nerves from the inside out. Using herb-based ingredients like Ashwagandha, valerian root, chamomile, and L-Theanine, these calming chews aim to relieve anxiety, reduce hyperactivity, and help your dog handle stressful situations and are backed by more than 10,000 five-star ratings. One reviewer who adopted a three-legged pup with separation anxiety said, “I am so grateful for these treats (which he loves, by the way!) since they are clearly making a huge difference in his anxiety and ultimately, quality of life!”

Certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and Rover pet lifestyle expert Nicole Ellis also recommends "dog paw protectors,” which are “helpful for senior pets that might slip on flooring — think hospital socks, but they just go on the paw pads.” Because they use a non-toxic adhesive instead of a slip-on design, dogs typically tolerate them better than socks, and they’re great for protecting paws against hot pavement, cold sidewalks, and rough terrain, too.

“If you're dealing with pulling, try a front-clip harness like the Freedom harness by 2 Hounds Design,” which offers “better control without discomfort,” said Annie Grossman, dog trainer and author of How To Train Your Dog With Love and Science. Made from chew-resistant nylon with steel hardware and four points of adjustment, “they turn your dog gently toward you when they pull, creating moments you can reward” — and it supports “dual attachments for added safety and subtle guidance."

Annie Grossman (dog trainer and author of How To Train Your Dog With Love and Science) also recommends this Easy-Walk no-pull harness. Designed by a veterinary behaviorist, it stretches across the shoulders with a front loop that turns your dog toward you when they tug, allowing you to discourage pulling without choking them. Its adjustable, snap-on design has earned it over 32,700 five-star ratings from reviewers.

"I think anyone with a puppy needs to have a flirt pole,” said Annie Grossman, dog trainer and author of How To Train Your Dog With Love and Science. "It's basically a large cat toy for dogs, but it's an excellent way to play fetch in a small space. Because the lure is attached, you don't have to go chase down a ball, and it's a great way to tug without your hand getting too close to the dog's mouth, which can save you from getting nipped.” Grossman also recommends using it to get the zoomies out and practicing commands like “drop it.”

Licking is a natural behavior, but it could indicate stress or boredom. Nicole Ellis, certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and pet lifestyle expert with Rover, recommends this Pupsicle toy for helping dogs “lick, focus, and decompress.” Made from natural rubber with grippy ridges and mess-reducing drool slots, it comes apart so you can fill the center with their favorite treat. “I love this one because you can customize what you freeze for it OR just buy the ready-made treats and options,” said Ellis.

“A physically tired dog can still be mentally bored!" said Hayley Kenner, co-owner of Revival Dog Training. With five customizable difficulty levels, this four-piece puzzle keeps even the smartest dogs mentally stimulated. Hide the treats inside before connecting the pieces together. Because they’re sturdy and made from thick rubber, they’re suitable for medium and large breeds — even if they’re heavy chewers.

If you’re feeding your dog from a bowl all the time, you could be missing out on a prime opportunity for playful enrichment. “The Snoop is a FAVORITE of almost every dog that comes over, “ said Nicole Ellis, certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and pet lifestyle expert with Rover. “Put a mixture of small and large treats (or their food) and let them work and have a blast.” Dispensing treats or kibble as it rolls, wobbles, and bounces, “it comes in two sizes” to suit most dogs, “from puppies to my 18-year-old dog. It’s a winner!"

“Enrichment is one of the most powerful ways to prevent behavior problems,” said Hayley Kenner (co-owner of Revival Dog Training), who also recommends Nina Ottosson and Outward Hound. This three-in-one puzzle bowl holds up to 1/2 cup of food to slow feeding and doubles as a lick mat to keep your dog engaged and happy. Finally, the three tiers spin for problem-solving mental stimulation.

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Thanks to their foraging instincts, most dogs love to dig, sniff, and search for their food. Hayley Kenner, the co-owner of Revival Dog Training, recommends snuffle mats to tackle boredom and mentally stimulate your pup while they eat. This snuffle mat has tons of hiding places where you can stash kibble or treats. It’s made from non-toxic, rip-resistant fleece in dog-visible colors, and it rolls up for compact storage.

Dogs need mental stimulation as much as they need physical activity. "This is the one my dog is currently playing with right now,” Nicole Ellis, certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and pet lifestyle expert with Rover, said about this Brightkins interactive puzzle toy. The nine rotating pieces cover 14 hidden compartments where you can stash treats or kibble, challenging your dog to sniff and problem-solve their way to rewards. According to Brightkins, 20 minutes of play expends as much energy as a one-hour walk.

According to Nicole Ellis, certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and pet lifestyle expert with Rover, once our dogs are trained, “We get comfortable and complacent” — but “mental work is just as important as physical exercise, even for rock-star dogs and our seniors.” Ellis recommends Outward Hound by Nina Ottosson, which is a level-two toy that offers an interactive challenge for trained dogs. It’s made from food-safe material, and you can easily adjust the difficulty level.

Nicole Ellis, certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and pet lifestyle expert with Rover, warns against "too much exercise, not enough rest. An overtired dog often looks ‘hyper’ or ‘naughty’ but actually needs downtime. The skill of relaxing is a very important skill.” This orthopedic dog bed is filled with chopped foam, covered in cozy fleece, and surrounded with raised support edges. It comes in five sizes and has a removable cover you can toss in the washing machine.

"Washable, waterproof covers for beds, sofas, and car seats” are “huge sanity savers, especially with seniors or puppies,” said Nicole Ellis, certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and pet lifestyle expert with Rover. For beds, rugs, and more, Ellis recommends Ameritech blankets because they’re waterproof to prevent leaks, soft to comfort your pet, and quilted and reversible for style. They’re also machine-washable and dryer-safe.

Nicole Ellis, certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and pet lifestyle expert with Rover, also recommends Mambe furniture covers to protect sofas, recliners, and armchairs. While pets are attracted to the soft fleece, the waterproof lining prevents accidents, moisture, and spills from ruining your upholstery. It’s also easy to spot-clean with an enzyme spray or throw in the washing machine.

Because it’s suitable for indoor or outdoor use and comes in five sizes (including small for portability), this pet blanket can go everywhere with your dog. One side has plush fleece, the other has cozy sherpa, and the interior has a waterproof membrane that protects your furniture and car upholstery from stains. It’s also machine-washable to keep it smelling fresh, looking clean, and feeling fluffy.

Vets recommend trimming your dog’s nails about every four weeks. This treat-dispensing toy “helps them file down their nails while they work,” said Nicole Ellis, certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and pet lifestyle expert with Rover. Hide treats underneath the sliding pieces, which are covered with a gritty texture to smooth nail tips and stimulate their mind at the same time.

According to Nicole Ellis, certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and pet lifestyle expert with Rover, you can’t expect a dog to “generalize automatically,” obeying all commands in new environments. “A dog who can ‘sit’ in the kitchen hasn’t automatically learned to sit at the park, café, or vet." Clicker training can help dogs recognize commands anytime, anywhere. This Clik Stik has a loud clicker with a retractable pointer, and it comes with a free training guide written by an expert trainer.

“Tethers that connect to a harness actually don’t pass crash testing,” said Nicole Ellis, certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and pet lifestyle expert with Rover. “My dogs only ride in Sleepypod gear.” This mobile pet bed doubles as a crash-tested car seat that encases your dog in water-resistant foam and breathable mesh. It threads through the seatbelt to keep it steady while you drive, and it’s suitable for dogs up to 15 pounds.

“Accidents and muddy paws happen,” and “being able to toss the rug in the wash is so, so nice,” said Nicole Ellis, certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and pet lifestyle expert with Rover. While Ellis has Ruggables in almost every room, you don’t have to pay a ton for machine-washable rugs. These are low-pile with durable, stain-resistant faux wool, making them doorway-friendly, easy to clean, and suitable for households with pets.

Compared to the machine-washable rugs of several years ago, newer types are “a lot thicker and squishier,” said Nicole Ellis, certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and pet lifestyle expert with Rover. This runner rug, for example, is surprisingly soft, plush, and comfy, so it feels great underneath feet and paws. Still, the whole thing is machine-washable to keep it fresh despite dirt, fur, and accidents.

“Another common issue is unintentionally rewarding unwanted behavior,” said Hayley Kenner, co-owner of Revival Dog Training. That’s why clickers are such powerful training tools: They give dogs clear feedback by marking the exact moment they do something right. This battery-free clicker has an easy-to-press button to mark a good behavior, an adjustable cord that wraps around your wrist, and a hollow interior to hold treats.

"This is a personal preference,” said Nicole Ellis, certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and pet lifestyle expert with Rover. “I LOVE these poop bags I don't have to rip apart.” Their no-tear, one-handed design is a “game-changer” when you’re holding a leash in the other hand — “Just pull and you're done.” They’re also made from 100% recycled plastic and come in a pack of eight rolls.

"For older dogs, we often see behaviors change when a dog isn’t feeling well — less activity, restlessness, or irritability,” said Andrew Bleiman, Head of Tractive in North America. “Tracking behavioral and health patterns over time helps owners distinguish between training issues and potential health concerns, which leads to better outcomes for everyone.” Bleiman recommends his company’s smart pet tracker to monitor heart health, sleep habits, and respiratory rates from your phone. It also doubles as a GPS tracker should your pet get lost.