Does it seem like your pup is glued to you at the hip? Even if you love your canine to death, it’s likely that their excessive clinginess is getting overbearing.
If your Velcro dog won’t stop following you, you probably haven’t gone to the bathroom in peace in months. Though this obsessive behavior comes from a place of love, you still deserve your free space! So, why exactly does your furry friend follow you so much?
Keep reading!
At a Glance
- They Love You
- They’re Bored and Want Attention
- They Are Hungry
- They Need to Poop
- They Are Protecting You
- They Want Protection
- They Have Separation Anxiety
- They Have FOMO
- There Are Some Recent Changes In Routine
- Clingy Dog Breeds Do Exist
See Related: Why Does My Dog Keep Licking Me?
Reasons Dogs Follow Their Pet Parents
Unfortunately, dogs can’t communicate with words the way humans do. Because of that, their behavior can be pretty puzzling at times. You can’t ask them outright why they do the things they do.
That’s why we’re here to help you make sense of it all.
#1. They Love You
There’s nothing cuter than a lovey-dovey dog. If your dog greets you with a playful prance and a sweet smile every time you come home from work, you’re a lucky pet parent!
To your canine companion, you are their whole world, and they hate spending time away from you.
More likely than not, your furry friend follows you around simply because they love you. Your presence makes them feel secure and happy. Why wouldn’t they want to spend time in your company?
#2. They’re Bored and Want Attention
Dogs want our attention. If you’ve been inattentive to your canine companion, they might be following you around the house more than normal. That, or they’re bored and need you to keep them entertained.
If you start to move, your dog may mirror you by following you. They might think that your activity is a sign that it’s time to play. After all, you’re the ultimate source of fun and games for your dog!
#3. They Are Hungry
As we said, your pup can’t use words to communicate their needs. So, when they’re hungry, they might let you know by staying hot on your tail. Or maybe they just want a little snack.
In addition, if they see you eating something, they might want a taste! Or if you have a set feeding schedule, they might start following you when it gets close to mealtime.
If your pooch won’t leave you alone, try giving them a treat to see if that satisfies their appetite. But be careful – giving them treats too often can act as a positive reinforcer, giving them one more reason to never leave your side.
#4. They Need to Poop
Your dog might follow you whenever they need a basic necessity. That includes food, love, and even the toilet! If your dog has been following you around, they might need to take a trip outside.
If that’s the case, you’re best off not ignoring their sad puppy dog eyes. Otherwise, you might end up with a chocolate stain on your innocent carpet.
Though pet waste management can be pretty disgusting, it doesn’t need to be. All you need to do is outsource the overly unpleasant task of poop scooping to trained pros. Here at Scoop Masters, our team knows a thing or two about doggy doo – and we will help you keep your yard feces-free!
#5. They Are Protecting You
Even if your teacup pup weighs less than 10 pounds, your dog might be following you to keep you safe. If they think you’re going someplace unsafe, they might stay nearby to protect you.
If you’re taking a walk in a park frequented by canines, your dog may follow you more closely than usual. Maybe your furry friend is a pretty protective pooch! Who else will keep you safe if not them? Chivalry isn’t dead, after all!
#6. They Want Protection
Your dog might protect you, or you might protect them! If you’re the owner of a particularly shy or scared dog, your presence is likely very calming to them.
Anything from terrifying thunderstorms to overconfident dogs could make your own dog feel anxious or on edge.
Bonus: What Kind Of Dog Are You? Your 2024 Dog Personality Assessment
#7. They Have Separation Anxiety
Once upon a time, canines were fierce animals that hunted wild prey for their food. Now, domesticated dogs wear mini-sweaters just to take a walk around the neighborhood (which you can’t deny is super cute!)
Many dogs nowadays can’t really cope with being alone. It can leave them with separation anxiety, a stress response triggered when they are away from the person they are bonded to. The symptoms can range from mild distress to truly chaotic behavior.
Here are a few other signs of separation anxiety:
- Pacing
- Trembling
- Excessive drooling
- Digging and scratching at doors or windows
- Howling
- Barking or whining
- Urinating or pooping indoors, even if potty trained
If you feel your pup might have separation anxiety, treat them with kindness and patience. Losing your cool will just result in more stress and make it harder for your dog to feel comfortable solo!
#8. They Have FOMO
FOMO, or “fear of missing out,” is a term that refers to the feeling of apprehension and anxiety that comes when you feel like you’re out of the loop. You might experience FOMO if your friends have a get-together and don’t invite you. ☹️
Your canine companion might feel FOMO if you go somewhere without them. So, if they see you going somewhere, they’re likely to follow you. They want to be in the know!
#9. There Are Some Recent Changes in Routine
Domestic dogs thrive on routine. They like the same things to happen day in and day out. They enjoy a set schedule: wake up, eat, go for a walk, cuddle with their human, eat, and sleep – or something like that.
If their reliable routine is disrupted, it might affect their confidence. Your dog might start following you more often to provide comfort and companionship.
#10. Clingy Dog Breeds Do Exist
Your pooch has a unique personality that sets them apart from the rest. If your dog won’t stop following you, they might just be a clingy canine! Clingy breeds do exist, and your pup might be one of them.
Here are some of the clingiest dog breeds out there:
- Hungarian Vizsla – Also known as the Ultimate Velcro Dog, this dog breed won’t ever want to leave your side.
- Labrador – The lab is man’s best friend and loves being a lap dog.
- Border Collie – These dogs love to work hard and play even harder!
- Maltese – This travel-sized pooch is easy to take with you wherever you go.
- Golden Retriever – These gentle and loyal pups are the second most popular dog breed for good reason.
- German Shepherd – Even though they are insanely intelligent, German Shepherds are great guard dogs.
Should I Be Worried That My Dog Is Following Me Everywhere?
If your dog follows you around the house, you might start missing your free space. But this clingy behavior isn’t a cause for alarm. It usually doesn’t signify that there’s something wrong. It’s natural for your dog to want to stay by your side!
How to Get Your Dog to Stop Following You
Though your pup’s constant company can be endearing, it’s okay if you’re ready to teach them independence. Keep these things in mind when doing so:
- Keep your dog busy to prevent boredom.
- Take them on a fulfilling walk each and every day.
- Give them a comfortable bed.
- Teach them some basic commands and obedience.
- Take them to the vet to make sure they’re healthy.
Final Thoughts
Your dog’s behavior can give you a lot of insight into their thoughts, feelings, and desires. If they won’t leave your side, it’s likely a sign of their love, so enjoy their cuddles while they last!
Keep Reading: 5 Ways To Trick Your Dog Into Thinking His Food Is A Tasty Treat
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Scoop Masters offers professional dog waste removal services in California, Texas, Florida, and Tennessee. Since 1988, we’ve saved dog owners across the country from the overly unpleasant task of picking up after their pets. Each poopy project we complete gives them the freedom, convenience, and sanitation they deserve! Contact us for a free quote, or simply stock up on enough dog poop bags to keep your pet’s number twos at bay. To stay in the loop, follow up on Facebook and Twitter/X. If your dog can poop it, we can scoop it!
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