Grain free is all the rage:
I’m sure I’ve written about this before. Fad diet trends from the human side have often trickled into veterinary medicine and pet food trends. There has been evidence that some (not all) grain free diets have led to heart issues in some dogs. Often touted as hypoallergenic these diets if not formulated properly can cause this issue. If your dog is on one of these for true allergic reactions it is best to consult your veterinarian to make sure it is still safe for your pet.

Pets aren’t Incestuous:
Ok so I don’t think everyone is disillusioned but I’ll say it straight up: It doesn’t matter if they are puppies/kittens and their mom, if you keep them together long enough nature will take over. Inbreeding isn’t just a product of human selective breeding. This isn’t a problem though right? you are all responsible pet owners and spay and neuter your pets and adopt from shelters anyway? Cool

Breeders give only the best:
Another misconception that I’m sure I’ve touched on before is the thought that purchasing your pet from a breeder means you’re getting a healthier animal. This isn’t necessarily true, selective breedings have brought about many health challenges. Definitely do not fall into the trap believing that the more money you spend the better the pet. Read a bit more about it here.

Bones are good for their teeth:
This is an oldie but a goodie. Brushing their teeth is good for their teeth. Bones, chewing on bones is not. Same goes for chewing on rocks. Chewing on hard things runs the risk of serious dental damage. Chipping teeth, exposing sensitive root pulp, fracturing teeth, all of the good, fun, painful, expensive stuff. Regular brushing of their teeth along with dental treats and the occasional veterinary dental cleaning (always under anesthesia) is what is best.

Pets should eat raw diets:
The same for my first point re: fad diets but this one has been going on for a while. Akin to human raw/paleo stuff the reasoning is that it is better to feed our pets closer to what their ancestors ate. I write more about it here. There was a push to feed our pets a “biologically appropriate raw food- BARF” diet. Claims that processing was harmful to them and what not. Raw diets are not better. They can be severely unbalanced, carry bugs that are dangerous to both pets and humans, are expensive, difficult to store. They do not cure or stop disease. I strongly urge a conversation between you and your veterinarian before considering this an option.