Dogs are social creatures and crave attention and affection. These characteristics are among the top reasons humans find it so easy to connect and care for them. But what happens when the companionship we all love turns into clinginess? When your dog exhibits unwanted behavior, like separation anxiety.
While having a clingy dog may not be the end of the world, it can certainly make life more challenging. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the reasons dogs exhibit this behavior. If you’re wondering, “Why is my dog being clingy?”, we’re here to help answer that question and more. Stay tuned to learn more!
Your Canine’s Age May Play a Factor
When thinking about why dogs may be clingy, think of dogs like people. We too grow more dependent on others as we age. And the same applies to doggies, especially once they’ve hit their golden years. As dogs age, their senses become less finetuned. Perhaps they can’t see the world as clearly as they once did, or maybe their snout isn’t as sharp. As they lose the ability to interact with the world in the same way they once did, fear may set in. This anxiety and stress can make a dog feel more vulnerable and reliant on their leader. So it’s possible your dog is becoming clingy because they feel safer being near you.
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They Don’t Like Being Left Behind
Everyone deserves a break every now and then. But if you’re a pet owner then you understand that enjoying a night away or vacation becomes a bit more complicated when you have your best bud to consider. Some pet owners feel comfortable leaving their pets alone for shorter periods of time, while others rely on a trusted dog sitter. Boarding your dogs is another option, especially for longer periods away. All options are worth considering, to figure out what works best for you and your bud. But unfortunately, not all dogs enjoy being away from their owner.
Even in the best-case scenario, it’s not uncommon for dogs to experience some clingy behavior before, after, or during separation. Dogs may feel a sense of worry or stress if they’re unsure of where their owner is. It’s difficult for a dog to differentiate hours, days, and even weeks because they don’t understand the concept of time in the same way we do. While this does complicate things, it doesn’t mean you don’t deserve a break away!
The key is making your dog feel loved and taken care of, even in your absence. If possible, let your dog enjoy those creature comforts no matter where they are. Many dog owners will leave their dogs with something that smells like them. Like an old t-shirt, you no longer wear that has your scent. Or if your dog has a favorite treat, why not supply your dog sitter with Fido’s favorites? You can even pass along a fun variety, like Carolina Prime’s Meat Lover’s Sampler, a bundle of four yummy treat bags. A little taste of home can go a long way!
It Could Be Their Breed
Each dog breed has its own set of unique characteristics and personality traits. And because of these personality traits, some dogs are naturally more clingy than others. Ever heard of a “Velcro dog”? These sweet pups are practically attached to their owners at the hip. They love to be close but can exhibit some unwanted clinginess if they don’t receive enough mental stimulation and exercise. Vizslas, pugs, dachshunds, papillons, and Dobermans are a few of the breeds that may be prone to clinginess. It’s not necessarily a bad thing, it just means that your precious pupper may enjoy being a lap dog more than the next.
Health Reasons
Another answer to the question, “Why is my dog being clingy?” may come down to their health. If a dog is ill or suffering from an injury, it may be more clingy than usual. After all, we can all use a little extra care and comfort when we’re feeling icky!
But if this clingy behavior is unusual for them, it may be a sign that you should contact your veterinarian to get their take on the situation. Clingy behavior can be a warning sign of something larger at bay.
A Dog Being Clingy Can Be Learned Behavior
Many dogs behave a certain way because they’re conditioned to do so. For example, a dog may follow you around the kitchen constantly because they know the kitchen is where the food is located. Over time they may come to realize that when you enter this space, they’re more likely to receive food.
Certain parts of your daily routine may trigger certain behaviors in your dog, and being clingy is one of them. Much like the kitchen scenario, hearing a set of keys jingle may trigger a number of different responses in a dog. To them, it may be a sign their owner is leaving them, or it’s time for a ride to the dog park. Either way, you may expect your dog to be more clingy!
They See You as a Safe Space
Finally, many dogs, especially small to medium-sized breeds, see their owner as more than just a pack leader. An owner protects them from threats, so you’re seen as their safe space. They feel comfortable when their owner is around. This notion is not that dissimilar for humans either. When we’re in a comfortable situation, we’re often reluctant to leave it or change it, right?
It’s simply natural to want to be comfortable. And just like humans, dogs want to stay in their comfort zone, where they’re protected and most at ease.
If you liked this, you’ll like our post Why Do Dogs Love Peanut Butter?
Our Final Thoughts
We hope you found this information useful and have gained a better understanding of why your dog may be being clingy. It’s important to remember that clingy behavior isn’t necessarily bad and that often it’s a dog’s way of showing that they love and want to be around you. For those times when they exhibit loving and good behavior, why not pass them a yummy treat as a reward?
At Carolina Prime Pet, our treats are made with premium, responsibly sourced ingredients. We’re very mindful of the ingredients we choose and are proud to make treats that both dogs and their owners love. Not sure what we carry? Peanut Butter Coated Sweet Potato Fries are one delicious option! But be sure to check out our entire line of dog treats here.
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