15 Weird Superstitions About Dogs That People Still Believe

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Dogs have been part of human history for thousands of years, and along the way, they’ve picked up some pretty bizarre superstitions. While we now understand that dogs aren’t magical fortune tellers or ghost whisperers (or are they?), Some people still hold on to old beliefs about their powers. Dogs have been the subject of countless myths and superstitions across cultures. Some of these beliefs are charming, while others are downright strange. Either way, they show just how much people have always admired—and sometimes feared—our four-legged friends.

A Howling Dog Means Death Is Near

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One of the most well-known dog superstitions is that if a dog howls at night, it’s a sign that death is approaching. Some cultures believe the dog is seeing a ghost, while others think it’s a warning that someone nearby is about to pass away. In reality, dogs howl for many reasons, like communicating with other dogs or responding to sirens. But if your dog howls at nothing in the middle of the night, well, maybe just double-check that your house isn’t haunted.

A Stray Dog Following You Brings Good Luck

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If a stray dog follows you home, some cultures believe it’s a sign of good fortune. In folklore, this is seen as the universe sending you a loyal companion to protect and bless your household. Of course, it could also just mean the dog smelled food in your pocket and wants a snack. Either way, adopting a stray pup sounds like a pretty lucky thing to do!

Dogs Can See Ghosts

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Many people believe that dogs can see spirits and sense paranormal activity. If your dog suddenly stares into an empty corner, barks at nothing, or acts spooked for no reason, some say it’s because they’re seeing a ghost. In reality, dogs have exceptional hearing and smell, which means they’re probably just detecting something humans can’t perceive. But hey, if your dog refuses to go into a certain room at night, you might want to sleep with the lights on—just in case.

Black Dogs Are Bad Luck

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Black cats get most of the blame for bad luck, but in some cultures, black dogs are considered unlucky, too. Some legends say seeing a black dog at night is an omen of death, while others believe encountering one on a journey means trouble ahead. This superstition is especially unfair since black dogs are often overlooked in shelters. In reality, black dogs are just as lovable (and lucky) as any other pup—plus, they look extra cool in photos!

Dogs Howling at Midnight Summon Evil Spirits

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According to old folklore, if a dog howls exactly at midnight, it’s summoning dark forces. Some legends claim that certain supernatural creatures, like werewolves or demons, use howling dogs as a sign of their presence. More likely, your dog just heard a noise outside and wanted to participate in the neighborhood gossip. But if they howl at midnight every night, maybe check for werewolves.

A Dog’s Licking Can Heal Wounds

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This superstition comes from the belief that dog saliva has healing properties. Some cultures thought that letting a dog lick a wound would speed up the healing process and even cure diseases. While dog saliva does contain some antibacterial properties, it’s not a substitute for proper medical treatment. Plus, considering what dogs like to lick, you might not want them anywhere near your open wounds!

Dogs Predict the Weather

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Ever heard someone say that when a dog eats grass, rain is coming? Some superstitions suggest that dogs have a built-in weather radar. If a dog rolls on the ground, it means a storm is on the way. If they scratch at the door, bad weather is approaching. In reality, dogs may be reacting to shifts in air pressure or humidity, but they’re probably not moonlighting as meteorologists.

If a Dog Sneezes, Someone is Talking About You

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This superstition is like the canine version of the belief that your ears burn when someone is gossiping about you. In some cultures, a dog sneezing randomly is a sign that someone is mentioning your name. Of course, the more likely reason is that your dog just sniffed up a bit too much dust. But who knows? Maybe your dog just sneezed because someone likes you.

Stepping in Dog Poop is Lucky

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As gross as it sounds, some cultures believe that stepping in dog poop—especially with your left foot—brings good luck. However, if you step in it with your right foot, it’s said to bring bad luck. Either way, this superstition feels suspiciously like someone trying to make themselves feel better after a very unfortunate sidewalk mishap.

Dogs Know When Someone Is About to Visit

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Many people believe that if a dog suddenly becomes restless, starts barking for no reason, or waits by the door, a visitor is about to arrive. While this might seem superstitious, there’s some truth to it—dogs have an incredible sense of hearing and smell, so they often detect people approaching long before we do. Whether it’s a friend or a delivery person, your dog probably knew they were coming before you did!

A Dog’s Tail Wagging to the Left is a Bad Sign

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This superstition suggests that the direction of a dog’s wagging tail holds meaning. If a dog wags to the right, it’s a sign of good fortune. But if they wag to the left, it’s supposedly a bad omen. In reality, research has shown that dogs wag their tails in different directions depending on their emotions, but it has nothing to do with luck—it’s just how their brains work!

Sleeping Dogs Should Not Be Disturbed, or They’ll Have Nightmares

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An old belief warns that waking a sleeping dog suddenly could cause them to have bad dreams or even bring bad luck. While it’s true that dogs can dream (and should be allowed to sleep peacefully), they don’t hold grudges if you accidentally wake them up. Just be prepared for a slightly grumpy pup who might demand a belly rub in compensation.

White Dogs Are Good Luck

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Some cultures believe that white dogs bring prosperity and happiness. In parts of Asia, owning a white dog is thought to attract good fortune. While there’s no scientific proof behind this, one thing is certain—having any dog, regardless of color, is already a lucky thing!

A Dog Scratching Its Ear Means Money is Coming

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This superstition claims that if your dog starts scratching its ear excessively, financial fortune is on the way. While that would be great, it’s more likely that your dog just has an itch or an ear infection. Maybe instead of expecting money, take them to the vet to get those ears checked!

Dogs Can Sense Pregnancy Before You Know It

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Many people believe that dogs can sense when someone is pregnant—even before they realize it themselves. Some say dogs become extra clingy and protective or act strangely around an expectant mother. While this sounds like a superstition, there may be some truth to it. Dogs have an incredible sense of smell and can detect hormonal changes in humans. Whether they truly know a baby is on the way or are just reacting to scent differences, one thing is for sure—your dog will always be by your side, pregnancy or not!

Dogs Might Not Be Magical, But They’re Still Amazing

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While dogs may not predict the future, see ghosts, or bring luck based on their tail-wagging direction, one thing is certain: they make life infinitely better. Whether they’re considered superstitiously lucky or just goofy, loving companions, dogs have a way of filling our lives with joy, loyalty, and unconditional love. So, the next time your pup sneezes, howls, or follows you home, don’t overthink it—just embrace the weirdness, appreciate their quirks, and, most importantly, reward them with a well-deserved treat!