Despite a wealth of pet care resources, many people remain influenced by a surprising array of pet myths.

A new survey involving over 2,000 adults across the UK by Petplan has uncovered a significant gap between the confidence pet owners feel about their knowledge and the reality of common misconceptions. Alarmingly, a quarter of pet owners admit they’ve been misled by at least one myth, and 62% say they would change their current care routines if they discovered they were based on incorrect beliefs.

“A wagging tail means a happy dog”

One of the most persistent myths uncovered by the survey is the belief that a wagging tail always signals happiness, with nearly half of respondents (49%) holding this misconception.

“While many people assume a wagging tail is a sign of happiness, it’s actually more nuanced than this,” explains Nick Jones, Dog Expert Witness and Behaviourist. “Dogs use their tails, alongside other body language cues, to convey a range of emotions—from excitement and happiness to nervousness or anxiety. The speed, position, and accompanying signals like posture or ear position are key to understanding how a dog truly feels. Rather than viewing a wag as a simple sign of friendliness, it’s better seen as an indication that the dog is open to interaction.”

Licking wounds: a risk, not a remedy

Another common misconception is that pets licking their wounds helps with healing, a belief held by 31% of pet owners. However, this can do more harm than good.

“Licking causes physical trauma to the skin’s natural barrier, which allows bacteria to enter the wound and even the body,” says Dr Brian Faulkner, FRCVS. “Bacteria thrive in dogs’ and cats’ mouths due to leftover food particles, dental plaque, and less hygienic habits like drinking from dirty puddles or licking their own bottoms.”

Pet loyalty and generational divides

The survey also reveals interesting insights into how people view loyalty in pets. While 21% of respondents consider Labradors the most loyal dog breed and 8% name Persian cats as particularly loyal, nearly half (47%) believe no cat breed is inherently more loyal. Notably, younger people are more likely to associate specific breeds with loyalty than older generations.

Cats and dogs: not always enemies

One in three people still mistakenly believes that “cats and dogs are natural enemies,” with this myth more common among dog owners (35%) than cat owners (28%).

“While some cats and dogs don’t get along, many dogs can live harmoniously with cats depending on their temperament and how they’ve been introduced,” says Dr Brian Faulkner. “It’s essential to consider the personalities of both pets before deciding to bring them into the same household.”

The importance of accurate information

While 58% of respondents feel confident in distinguishing pet facts from fiction, this survey shows a clear need for better understanding of pet care practices. Encouragingly, most pet owners (62%) are willing to adapt their routines when presented with accurate information.

“There are so many myths about pets that it’s easy to see why people might be confused,” says Dr Brian. “From interpreting a wagging tail to understanding their nutritional needs, these misconceptions can impact how we care for our animals. It’s essential to look beyond the myths and really get to know our pets as individuals. While some myths may seem harmless, others can lead to costly mistakes, which is why having the right support, like pet insurance, offers peace of mind. The more informed we are, the better we can respond to their needs and ensure their happiness and well-being.”

Common myths uncovered by the survey include:

• Over 20% believe dogs only see in black and white, though dogs can perceive some colours.

• 46% of dog owners think their pets “look guilty” after misbehaving, when research shows this expression is more likely a reaction to their owner’s behaviour.

• 12% still believe cats should drink milk, despite its potential to cause digestive issues.

By debunking these myths, pet owners can better care for their furry companions and improve their well-being.