November 3, 2026, 2:48 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
The desire for a dog often arises quickly. Yet, ironically, many future owners make decisions before the dog even arrives that can burden their coexistence for years. Dog trainer Katharina Marioth explains in a PETBOOK interview which three mistakes are particularly common and why false expectations, hasty choices, and lack of life planning become problematic.
“Many believe that a dog must ‘function’ after puppy school.”
PETBOOK: Katharina, you have worked as a dog trainer for many years. What are the three typical beginner mistakes that owners often make with their dogs?
Katharina Marioth: “There are many! But if I have to limit it to the three biggest problems, they would be:
1. Hasty dog selection
Many people buy a dog spontaneously—whether online, on platforms, or after just one visit to a breeder. This is problematic. You should definitely take the time to thoroughly inform yourself and visit several breeding facilities or animal shelters. And please: Don’t rely solely on search engines when looking for breed descriptions! Dogs are often advertised like used cars there—with a focus on positive traits and very vague descriptions like ‘skeptical of strangers.’ What does that mean concretely? Probably that visitors are unwelcome.
2. Too high expectations for training
Many believe that a dog must ‘function’ after puppy school. But the real challenges come later—with the first and second puberty and social maturity. A dog needs time to learn, just like we do. It’s not about speed, but about continuous development.
3. Lack of life planning
A dog lives ten to fifteen years—you must realistically plan for this responsibility. What happens if I move, have children, or want to travel more often? Many dogs end up in shelters because life circumstances change. Therefore, you should be completely honest with yourself beforehand: Can and do I want to care for a dog long-term?”
Also interesting: Why bite inhibition in dogs is so important and how to train it
“A serious mistake is the use of punishment”
These are all things to consider before a dog moves in. What beginner mistakes often occur when the dog is already there?
“A classic is the ‘waiting before the food bowl.’ Many think it has something to do with impulse control—but it doesn’t. It’s just a conditioned sequence. A dog that waits patiently doesn’t automatically leave a rabbit alone. Impulse control must be specifically trained—and that takes time.
A serious mistake is also the use of punishment or even violence. For me, this includes physically disciplining the dog, such as grabbing the snout. Unfortunately, in social networks, you increasingly see so-called training methods that are dangerous: Dogs are lifted, sprayed with water, or forced onto their backs. Training harnesses that cause pain are also a no-go for me. All of this destroys the dog’s trust—often permanently.”
What would you wish for from future dog owners?
“Time. For the decision, for the selection, for the training. I wish for more honesty with oneself: Does this dog really fit into my life? Not because the breed is currently trendy or performs well on social media. I advise everyone to seek advice beforehand—whether from trainers or animal welfare organizations. It’s worth it in the long run.”
You can watch the entire interview with Katharina Marioth in the video.