Ever wondered why do dogs sit on you? Dogs love to sit close to us for many reasons. They will either choose to sit on your lap, chest or even your feet!
Even if you get them a cozy bed, these furry creatures will choose to sit on you. As a dog owner, you play many roles, and being a sitting spot is one of them. It can either be out of affection, breed behavior or to mark their scent.
Most people love the snuggling behavior of animals. It is one of the perks of being a pet owner.
But, if your canine buddy is getting too clingy or rowdy, you might want to train him. It will help to correct their behavior so that they don’t sit on you.
Before you start to train your pooch, it is essential to know the underlying reason. In this article, we will discover the motive of canines that why do they sit on you.
6 Reasons Why Do Dogs Sit On You
Some of the dogs may prefer their personal space, but others continuously crave to squeeze in.
Before we know the reason, it is vital to know that dogs are social animals. They tend to have a close and affectionate relationship with their loved ones.
Let’s elaborate on their love language a bit and find out more!
1) They Yearn for Attention:
Your furry friend may sometimes bring toys for you or shows their belly. It is a sign that they want to play with you and need attention.
Animals cannot speak the human language. And, this why they have different ways to express their emotions. Dogs are incredibly social animals, and they need their owners to show affection.
If your dog isn’t barking too loudly or getting aggressive, it is entirely normal.
If the whining occurs frequently, it is a sign that they want to spend more time with you. Treating them with cuddles is an excellent way to bond well with your canine friend.
Giving your pooch belly rubs or playing tug of war is also an excellent way to show your pet that you love them.
2) It Is A Breed Behavior:
It makes sense, why some dogs are known as “lapdogs”. Smaller dogs like Maltese are selectively bred. And, perfectly fit on our lap. But larger dogs like Samoyeds and Mastiffs also do the same.
For the particular breeds, your lap is a safe and snuggly spot. Sitting in your lap also gives them a height. It helps them to feel secure as they can see stuff from elevation.
If there are children around the house, your lap dog can feel threatened. And, will try to sit on your lap more often.
As aforementioned, some large breed often exhibits this behavior. They think they are small enough to sit on you.
Some people call these dogs, “gentle giants” because they want to snuggle and feel loved as lap dogs.
Being a dog owner is all about being an all-rounder. At times you should be a piece of furniture for them!
If you aren’t comfortable with your dog sitting on you, train them by telling them to sit nearby.
3) They Rub Their Scent:
Dogs love to rub themselves with their owner. Whenever they sit on you, they might do it.
It is a sign that they are transferring their scent on you. They do it because your pup is possessive about you and wants to mark their territory.
Sitting on you is relatively better to assert dominance than to urinate. So, it must be okay with you!
There are high chances of this increased behavior if you have babies or other pets around. Dogs tend to get jealous if you have the scent of other animals as well.
4) Dogs Want To Feel Secure:
Your canine friend will do this for their security. You are the provider of his food and shelter. Hence, he would want to know everything, even when you make a move.
Dogs find it helpful because it helps them to know if you are leaving the house. This behavior also helps the dog to see if you are cooking food for them or not.
Some dogs do this for their owner’s safety as well. As German Shepherds are service dogs, they might do this very often. They believe they must protect their owner.
5) Dogs Love To Cuddle:
You are enjoying your favorite movie in bed, all of a sudden your dog snuggled with you?
Sometimes, your pup wants the simple joy of your presence. For most dogs, physical touch is the key to keeping them satisfied.
If you suspect that your furry friend needs an emotional boost, cuddle with it!
You can also give them their favorite snack and snuggle in bed together! It is good for your mood as well as your canine partner.
6) They May Show Signs Of Dominance:
This reason is not a good sign. If your dog shows aggressive signs and barks at everyone around you, train them out of this behavior.
Your pooch may also try to claim a chair or snaps when you try to push him off. He may even growl at people. These signs are not cute, and you should get rid of them.
Punish your dog by taking away his favorite toy or snack. You can also put him in time out. In this way, he will recognize their bad behavior.
It is okay for dogs to be possessive about their owner. But, it is not acceptable for them to be aggressive about it. If the problem worsens, you can contact a behaviorist.
Why Do Dogs Sit On Your Feet?
Dogs have a strong bond with their owners. There are times when they want to show possessiveness. They either do it by sitting on your lap, chest, or even feet.
Apart from the reason mentioned above, there can be other reasons for this behavior.
1) They Are Showing Love:
It is normal if they aren’t showing any aggressiveness. Your pup just wants to show they love you.
Some dogs are prepared even for the slightest movement of their owners. They may prefer sitting on your feet while you sit on the couch.
Other dogs also lie down because physical contact is relaxing for them. Dogs love tickling if you’re doing so, chances are they might lay on your feet and show love
2) They Are Anxious:
In some situations, your pup may sit or lie down on your feet. They might be anxious or fearful.
It is your responsibility to assess their behavior. And, look for the following signs:
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Tail hanging down or beneath them
- Lowered head
- Ears pulled back
If dogs get frightened, they want to get close to their owner. If they hear certain noises, it can cause such behavior.
Try to calm them down by patting and cuddling with them. In this way, they will feel protected and loved.
3) Learned Behavior:
Throughout time, your dog must have learned a few things from you.
For example, if dogs sit on your feet, they will get your attention. It is normal if you talk to your dog while he is on your feet.
Continuation of this process must’ve to lead your dog to learn this behavior. To positively reinforce this behavior, give them a treat. So they remain seated beside your feet.
Conclusion:
Every dog has a different personality from others. Your pet may not sit on you very often. But if you think that why do dogs sit on you. We have mentioned the reasons in the article.
Try giving your dog as much attention as possible. They have a loving and loyal nature. It is your duty to pay them back in the form of engagement.
Cuddling and snuggling with your dog is a great way to release your stress as well as your pooch’s.