15 Strange Dog Superstitions from Around the World

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Dogs have been part of human culture for thousands of years, serving as protectors, hunters, and loyal companions. With such a strong connection to people, it’s no surprise that superstitions about them have developed across different cultures. Some see dogs as symbols of luck, while others believe certain behaviors predict misfortune. From howling at night to the significance of their fur color, these beliefs range from eerie to bizarre. Whether you enjoy folklore or just love quirky tales, these dog superstitions might change how you see your pup!

A Howling Dog Predicts Death

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One of the most well-known dog superstitions comes from multiple cultures, including the United States, Ireland, and China. If a dog howls at night for no apparent reason, some believe it means death is near—either for someone in the household or a close neighbor. This belief likely stems from the way dogs sense changes in their environment and their ability to detect sickness before humans do. While most howling is simply a form of communication, some people still feel uneasy when their dog starts wailing at the moon.

A Stray Dog Following You Brings Good Luck

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In some parts of Russia and Eastern Europe, if a stray dog chooses to follow you home, it’s considered a sign of good fortune. The belief is that the dog has chosen you as a worthy companion and that accepting it into your life will bring prosperity. Some people even feed stray dogs in hopes of earning their favor and attracting positive energy. Whether or not luck follows, one thing is certain—a newly adopted furry friend is always a win.

Black Dogs Are Bad Omens in Some Cultures

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While black dogs are often associated with mystery and power, some cultures view them as harbingers of misfortune. In English folklore, the sight of a large black dog, sometimes called a “Black Shuck,” is said to be a warning of imminent disaster or even death. In contrast, other cultures see black dogs as protectors from evil spirits. This superstition has unfortunately contributed to the lower adoption rates of black dogs in shelters, proving that myths can have real-world consequences.

Seeing a White Dog in the Morning Brings a Good Day

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In Japan, some believe that seeing a white dog early in the morning is a sign that you’ll have a lucky and peaceful day. White is associated with purity and good fortune in Japanese culture, and a white dog is thought to amplify those blessings. People who believe in this superstition often take it as a sign to start the day on a positive note, and who wouldn’t feel better after spotting a fluffy white pup?

A Dog Sneezing Means Good Fortune in Italy

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While humans might see sneezing as a sign of allergies or illness, some Italians believe that when a dog sneezes, it’s a sign of good fortune. If a dog sneezes near someone making an important decision, it’s considered an affirmation that things will go well. In some cases, people even view a sneezing dog as a signal to move forward with a business deal or marriage proposal. If your dog has allergies, you might just be drowning in good luck!

A Dog Scratching Its Ear Means Rain is Coming

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In parts of India and the Philippines, people believe that if a dog scratches its ear excessively, it means rain is on the way. This superstition likely comes from the idea that dogs can detect atmospheric pressure changes before a storm. While meteorologists rely on satellites and radar, some still trust their dogs’ itchy ears as a more natural weather forecast.

A Dog Walking Between Two Friends Will Break Their Bond

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A widely held superstition in Turkey and some parts of the Middle East warns that if a dog walks between two friends, it could cause their friendship to break apart. To prevent this, some people will touch each other’s hands or say a special phrase to ward off bad luck. Whether or not it’s true, one thing is certain—dogs do love squeezing into tight spaces!

Dogs Can See Ghosts

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In many cultures, people believe that dogs have a sixth sense and can see spirits. If a dog suddenly starts barking at an empty corner or staring intently at nothing, some say it’s because they’re seeing a ghost. This belief is especially common in Mexico and parts of Asia, where dogs are thought to act as protectors against negative spirits. While there’s no scientific proof, it’s enough to make anyone a little nervous when their dog starts growling in thin air.

Three Dogs Barking Together is an Omen

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In Hungary and parts of Eastern Europe, there’s a belief that if three dogs bark at the same time, something bad is about to happen. Whether it’s a sign of bad luck, an impending storm, or an unexpected visitor, people who follow this superstition tend to take the warning seriously. It’s unclear where this belief originated, but it certainly makes group barking sound a lot more ominous.

A Dog Lying on Its Back Invites Guests to the House

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In some parts of China, if a dog suddenly rolls onto its back and stays there for a while, it’s believed that guests are about to arrive. This superstition suggests that dogs have a connection to human interactions and can sense when someone is on their way. While most dogs probably just enjoy a good belly rub, it’s an interesting way to predict an unexpected visit!

A Dog’s Licking Can Remove Bad Luck

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Certain superstitions in Latin America suggest that if a dog licks your hand or face, it can remove bad energy or cleanse away bad luck. Some people actively encourage their dogs to give them a few licks when they feel unlucky, believing it will bring them better fortune. Whether or not it works, it’s certainly an adorable way to lift one’s spirits.

A Dog Howling at Midnight Invites Spirits

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In some parts of South America and the Philippines, it is believed that if a dog howls at midnight, it’s calling spirits into the home. Some say it invites good spirits, while others believe it attracts restless souls who haven’t found peace. This superstition has led many people to shush their dogs quickly if they start howling late at night. While science says dogs are just responding to distant sounds, it’s still an eerie thought when you hear a lonely howl in the darkness.

A Pregnant Woman Shouldn’t Touch a Dog in Some Cultures

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In parts of Southeast Asia, a superstition warns pregnant women not to touch dogs, believing it could lead to complications in childbirth. While this belief is not based on any medical evidence, it’s still followed in some rural areas. Thankfully, most modern pet-loving parents know that cuddling a dog is far more comforting than risky!

A Dog Looking at the Moon Brings Misfortune

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In some Native American and African traditions, a dog staring at the moon is believed to bring bad luck. This superstition may have originated from the eerie feeling of watching an animal seemingly lost in thought. While most dogs are probably just admiring the night sky, some people take this as a warning sign of trouble ahead.

If a Dog Barks at a Wedding, the Marriage Will Fail

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A common superstition in Greece and parts of Italy states that if a dog barks during a wedding ceremony, the marriage is doomed. Dogs are believed to have an innate ability to sense energy, and if they react negatively, it’s a sign of bad luck. While there’s no science to back this up, couples might want to keep their furry friends on their best behavior just in case!

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