There’s nothing better than spending quality time with your dog. Although you enjoy his company, at times you may ask yourself, “Why Does my Dog Follow me Everywhere?”
Did you know that this behavior has to do with your pup’s animal instincts? It may seem cute to have your dog around everywhere, but it can also be an indication that something is up. Younger dogs, for example, around 6 months of age, may look at their owners as if they were their mother. In that case, it’s normal for him to follow you everywhere. Positive reinforcement is another factor that can make your dog follow you everywhere. After all, if he usually receives rewards when he’s around you, he’s sure to follow you in search of more! Dogs also tend to respond to certain behaviors from their owners. If your dog sleeps in your bed every day, for example, you may be reinforcing his need to always follow you around.
To help you better understand your dog’s behavior, we’ve listed the main possible reasons why dogs follow their owners everywhere below. Check it out!
Following the Leader
In large families, it is common for the dog to become attached to a particular person. Usually, this person is the one who offers him food, walks, treats, and games.
It is common for some breeds to become more attached to their owners than others. But if your dog is excessively attached and follows you around everywhere, it is important to find out if this is part of his personality or if it is the result of a specific problem. An older dog who is losing his eyesight or hearing, for example, may start following his owner out of fear or insecurity.
Many owners don’t realize it, but a very attached dog could be suffering from some serious illness or trauma. That’s why we always recommend taking your dog to the vet for a routine check-up. If you live in Astoria, check out our full list of vets in the area.
Separation Anxiety
Did you know that a dog that follows its owner everywhere may be showing signs of separation anxiety?
The difference between attachment and separation anxiety is precisely the anxiety itself.
Dogs that are more attached to their owners, also known as Velcro dogs, like to be in the presence of their owners for reasons we’ve talked about above. Dogs with separation anxiety, on the other hand, panic when they are away from their owners, showing various signs such as fussing, crying, howling, or walking in circles.
Remember that Velcro dogs are more susceptible to developing separation anxiety. Therefore, it is necessary to be attentive and work to prevent this behavior from becoming a problem.
How to deal with it?
There are many approaches you can take to make your dog understand that he doesn’t have to follow you everywhere. The ideal thing is that your dog enjoys your company, but also calms down when you are not with him.
Physical and mental exercises can help a lot to eliminate this type of problem, as they are able to relax and reassure your dog. It is essential that your pup expends energy so that he does not become restless and, as a result, follow you at all times.
You can also encourage your dog to relax in his own space, with the help of toys and treats. But remember not to overdo it with positive reinforcement!
Set some rules and stick to them. If you want your dog to stay away from the dinner table, for example, train him to do so. If you’re having trouble eliminating clingy behavior, consider getting help from a professional Balanced Dog Trainer.
Read more: Why Does My Dog Bark at Kids?
Does your dog follow you everywhere?
It’s not bad to have your pup always by your side, but when this behavior becomes frequent, you have to work to change it.
Remembering that if your dog follows you everywhere, he may be suffering from an illness or trauma. Therefore, it is necessary to always be in contact with a Veterinarian and Balanced Dog Trainer if the problem persists.
Dog Walker Astoria
If you require help providing socialization opportunities for your dog and you live in Astoria, you can enroll your pup in daily Socialization Walks with Buster and Whiskers. We offer daily 1-hour Socialization Walks. If your pup is under-socialized, we will work with them to help desensitize them and get them ready for our Group Socialization Walks. You must live within our Astoria coverage area. In addition, your dog must be up-to-date on all required vaccinations. Laying a strong foundation in socialization is the best gift you can give your pup for a long and happy life together!
Buster and Whiskers is The #1 Dog Walking Service in Astoria, NY. If your dog needs more exercise or social interaction, enroll your pup in daily Socialization Walks with us. Contact us for a professional and reliable Dog Walker in Astoria! Follow us on Instagram.
