13 Weird Dog Superstitions That Might Actually Be True

Shutterstock

Dogs have been part of human history for thousands of years, and countless myths, legends, and superstitions come with them. Many cultures believe dogs have supernatural abilities, from predicting the weather to seeing ghosts. While some of these beliefs might sound far-fetched, others have surprising connections to real-life behaviors. Whether it’s an old wives’ tale or something that actually makes sense, these dog-related superstitions have been passed down through generations. Some are eerie, some are heartwarming, and a few might make you side-eye your pup a little differently.

A Dog Howling Means Death Is Near

Shutterstock

One of the oldest and most widespread dog superstitions is that a howling dog signals death. Many cultures believe that when a dog howls, it senses an impending passing. Science tells us that dogs howl for various reasons, including loneliness, communication, and responding to high-pitched sounds. However, countless eerie stories exist where a dog howled right before someone in the household fell ill or passed away. Coincidence? Maybe. Or maybe dogs really do have an instinct that humans don’t understand.

Dogs Can See Ghosts

Shutterstock

Have you ever noticed your dog staring at something invisible, barking at an empty corner, or refusing to enter a particular room? Many believe that dogs can see spirits and supernatural entities. While there’s no scientific proof, dogs have heightened senses, including the ability to detect subtle changes in air currents, scents, and sounds humans can’t perceive. Whether it’s a ghostly presence or just a shadow playing tricks, dogs seem to react to things we can’t see.

A Dog Sleeping With Its Back to You Brings Bad Luck

Shutterstock

Some old superstitions claim that if a dog turns its back on you while sleeping, it’s a sign of betrayal or incoming misfortune. In reality, dogs sleep in certain positions based on comfort and security. If your dog sleeps facing away from you, it could just mean they trust you completely and feel safe. But if you’re superstitious, give them a belly rub and hope for the best!

Black Dogs Are Bad Omens

Shutterstock

Black dogs have long been associated with folklore and superstition, often seen as omens of death or supernatural guardians of the underworld. In many legends, encountering a black dog at night is considered a warning. However, black dogs are just as loving and loyal as any other dog, and sadly, this superstition has even led to lower adoption rates for black-coated pups. Instead of fearing them, maybe it’s time to rewrite the narrative—black dogs could just be mysterious protectors watching over us.

Dogs Know When Someone Is Pregnant

Shutterstock

Many dog owners swear their pups started acting differently around them before they even knew they were pregnant. Superstition suggests that dogs can sense new life and will become more protective of expecting mothers. Scientifically, dogs can detect hormonal changes and even subtle shifts in behavior, making this one superstition that might actually be rooted in reality. If your dog suddenly starts cuddling you more, maybe they know something you don’t yet!

A Stray Dog Following You Means Good Fortune

Shutterstock

In some cultures, if a stray dog follows you home, it’s believed to bring good luck and prosperity. This belief stems from the idea that dogs are messengers of fate, choosing their owners based on destiny. While the logical explanation is that the dog likes you (or your snacks), it’s still a nice thought that a wandering pup could symbolize good things to come.

If a Dog Sits Between a Couple, They Will Break Up

Shutterstock

An old superstition claims that if a dog insists on sitting between a couple, it’s a sign their relationship won’t last. This belief is based on the idea that dogs can sense tension and bad energy. While there’s no proof of this, some dog owners have admitted their pets seemed to dislike a partner before a breakup. Maybe dogs just have a built-in radar for detecting bad relationships!

A Dog Digging at the Ground Predicts Rain

Shutterstock

If your dog starts digging in the yard out of nowhere, it might be time to check the weather forecast. Many old beliefs suggest that dogs can predict rain, sensing changes in barometric pressure and humidity before a storm arrives. Science backs this up, as dogs can indeed detect these shifts, which explains why some start acting restless before bad weather hits. Your pup might just be your most reliable weather forecaster.

Dogs Who Cross Your Path Can Change Your Luck

Shutterstock

In some cultures, a dog crossing your path is considered a sign of change—whether it’s good or bad depends on the direction. A dog crossing from left to right is thought to bring good luck, while one crossing from right to left is said to bring misfortune. While this might sound like a strange way to predict luck, one thing’s for sure—if a dog crosses your path, they’re probably just on their way to something more interesting!

Dogs Can Sense Evil

Shutterstock

Many people believe that dogs can sense bad intentions or even evil spirits. It’s not uncommon to hear stories of dogs growling at certain people for no apparent reason, only for those individuals to reveal their bad side later. While this might sound spooky, science suggests that dogs are excellent at reading human body language and detecting subtle cues of dishonesty or aggression. It might be worth paying attention if your normally friendly pup seems wary of someone.

A Dog Scratching Its Ears Means Guests Are Coming

Shutterstock

Some old wives’ tales suggest that visitors are on their way if a dog suddenly scratches its ears. While there’s no real evidence behind this one, dogs have incredible hearing and might pick up on distant sounds of footsteps approaching or car engines long before we do. Whether it’s an old superstition or just a sign your dog has itchy ears, it’s always fun to see if this one holds true!

A Dog Lying on Its Back Means Trouble Is Near

Shutterstock

Some cultures believe that if a dog suddenly rolls onto its back and stays there for a long time, it’s a sign that danger is coming. This could be anything from illness to an unexpected misfortune in the family. Realistically, dogs roll onto their backs to cool off, scratch an itch, or ask for belly rubs. But if your dog does this out of the blue, maybe it wouldn’t hurt to stay extra cautious—just in case.

Dogs Can Predict When You’re Coming Home

Shutterstock

Have you ever wondered how your dog is already waiting at the door before you even pull into the driveway? Some believe dogs have a psychic ability to predict their owner’s arrival. Science suggests that dogs rely on routine, scent, and subtle environmental changes to anticipate your return. But some stories go beyond logical explanations, making this one superstition that remains fascinatingly mysterious.

The Supernatural Side of Man’s Best Friend

MidJourney