'I'm a dog trainer and one common act is the worst mistake new owners make'

A professional dog trainer has issued a word of warning about the "worst thing" owners can do when welcoming a new dog into their home - and it's an easy mistake to make that comes from a place of love. Many people are eager to welcome a dog into their family, drawn by their loyalty, affection, companionship and more.

Dogs are famously known as "man's best friend", and it's not hard to see why but owning one is a huge commitment that shouldn't be taken lightly. They require dedicated care and attention throughout their entire lives.

Increasingly, people are choosing to rescue dogs from animal shelters and charities but sadly, in some cases, the dogs are returned, which can be very traumatic and distressing for them.

READ MORE: Dad kills armed intruder in his own home after gang bursts in with crowbar

READ MORE: Real-life Cinderella leaves prom in tears after 'bullies tear dress to pieces'

In an effort to help avoid this scenario, canine behaviourist Will Atherton has revealed the "worst mistake" new owners make with their rescue pet.

The expert has gained a large following on social media, where he shares his years of expertise and insight into why dogs may behave in certain ways, as well as tips and advice on how to rectify any unwanted issues.

In a recent Instagram video, the expert discussed a common mistake owners make when bringing home a rescue dog - though his advice can also apply to non-rescue dogs.

Will began: "If you're bringing a new rescue dog into your home, one of the worst things that you can do is love on them too much.

"Now, I know that might sound crazy but let me explain," he then showed a mixed breed dog who's currently in his care and undergoing training.

Will continued: "This is my mate Bruno - Bruno is here at my canine sanctuary for a whole month learning how to become a perfect canine companion.

"He's been stuck in rescue for years and he's been bounced in and out of loving homes three or four times and sent back to the rescue centre every single time - and do you know why?

"It's because they loved on him too much - they gave him way too much freedom, surrounded him with people he wasn't ready for, in ways in which he wasn't ready to handle, and it set him up for massive amounts of failure.

"Now, I don't mean that you shouldn't love your rescue dog but if you love your new rescue dogs, you must lead them because leadership is love."

He went on to say he'd "proven" Bruno was more than capable of being a "calm, relaxed and perfect" companion, praising the dog for his "loyal" and "loving" character while emphasising the importance of establishing "rules, boundaries, structure and leadership" to ensure "the perfect version of a perfect dog".

Will warned against giving dogs too much freedom and "access to everything" straight away as he says it creates "huge arousal spikes" and sends their "excitement through the roof", which can lead to unwanted behaviours like "jumping up on people", chewing and more.

The expert added: "It wasn't his fault he was sent back in and out of shelters. It's because people didn't lead him because if you love your dog, you must lead your dog."

Dogs often represent a significant lifestyle shift so before getting one, it's crucial to conduct thorough research.

It's also worth remembering that training is vital, and not all dogs are appropriate for inexperienced owners.