Despite a wealth of pet care resources, Brits are still influenced by an array of misconceptions when it comes to pets. A new survey from Petplan which involved over 2,000 UK adults has revealed a surprising knowledge gap between the confidence Brits feel about their knowledge and the realities of common pet myths that persist. Alarmingly, a quarter of pet owners confess they’ve been misled by at least one pet myth, underscoring a misunderstanding in pet care practices.

“A wagging tail means a happy dog”

The findings show that while 58% of respondents are confident they understand their pets well, many continue to be misled by long-standing myths. One of the most surprising results is that nearly half of UK adults (49%) incorrectly believe that a wagging tail always indicates a happy dog. This belief, though widespread, misinterprets the range of emotions a dog can express with its tail.

“While many people assume a wagging tail is a sign of happiness, it’s actually more nuanced than this” says 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 myth that persists is the belief that pets licking their wounds helps with healing. According to the survey, 31% of pet owners think this behaviour is beneficial, when in fact, it can lead to infections.

Dr. Brian Faulkner states: “Licking causes physical trauma to the skin’s natural barrier, which allows bacteria to enter the wound and even the body. Bacteria thrive in dog and cats’ mouths. These bacteria may originate from leftover food particles, dental plaque, and less hygienic habits, such as drinking from dirty puddles and licking their own bottoms.”

Beliefs about pet loyalty
The survey also revealed that many Brits have strong opinions about pet loyalty. While 21% consider Labradors the most loyal dog breed, and 8% believe Persian cats are the most loyal, nearly half (47%) think no cat breed is inherently more loyal. Moreover, a generational divide exists, with younger respondents more likely to associate specific breeds with loyalty.
Misunderstandings about cats and dogs coexisting
Despite their confidence in pet knowledge, nearly one in three Brits mistakenly believe that “cats and dogs are natural enemies.” This misconception is more prevalent among dog owners (35%) than cat owners (28%). The reality is that there is a lot of nuances to it.
“While some cats and dogs don’t get along, many dogs can live harmoniously with cats, depending on their temperament, and how they have been introduced to each other” says Brian. “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 distinguishing pet facts from fiction, gaps remain in understanding basic pet care. However, there is hope: the survey shows that 62% of pet owners are ready to change their routines if they discover they’re based on false beliefs, highlighting a proactive and adaptable mindset when it comes to their pets’ well-being.
Petplan’s vet expert, Brian Faulkner, FRCVS, says “There are so many myths about pets that it’s easy to see why people might be confused. 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, understanding their behaviours and what these mean in specific circumstances. And while some myths may seem harmless, others can turn out to be costly mistakes, which is why having the right support, like pet insurance, can offer peace of mind. The more informed we are, the better we can respond to their needs and ensure their happiness and well-being.” says Dr. Brian.

Common myths that persist
Several misconceptions continue to influence how pet owners care for their animals. For example:
• Over 20% believe dogs only see in black and white, when in reality, dogs perceive colours, though not as vividly as humans.
• 46% of dog owners think their pets “look guilty” after misbehaving, though studies show this expression is a reaction to their owners’ behaviour, not actual guilt.
• 27% of respondents believe cats are low-maintenance pets, 17% think smaller dogs are easier to care for, and 12% still believe cats should drink milk, despite its potential to cause digestive issues.