Do you ever wonder why your pup loves to curl up on your lap or lay its head on your shoulder? While it may seem like an annoying habit, it’s actually a sign of affection. In this blog post, we’ll explore why does my dog lay on me and the reasons behind this cuddly behavior, helping you ensure it’s a positive experience for both of you!
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Protective Instinct: Why does my dog lay on me?
Dogs are intuitive to protect their owners and the people they consider part of their pack. When a dog lays on top of you, it asserts dominance and control over its environment. This instinctive behaviour is usually observed when the dog perceives a potential threat or is anxious. This behaviour can also be seen in puppies showing trust and affection towards their owners. It is important to understand this type of behaviour should not be discouraged as it is an instinct for your dog to protect you.
Seeking Comfort and Security
It’s not uncommon for dogs to seek comfort and security from their human companions. Dogs are naturally packed animals, so it’s not surprising that they may look to their owners for comfort. When dogs sleep in the burrower position, they are searching for comfort and security. This is especially true if any unusual events or sounds occur in the home, such as loud noises or unfamiliar people. Additionally, if your pup feels anxious or scared, it may burrow into you to find the comfort and security they need.
Seeking Physical Warmth
One of the main reasons why your dog might be laying on you is for physical warmth. Your pup might be looking for extra cuddles and warmth, as it can be quite cold when they’re not close to you or if you’re in a colder climate. On top of that, when your pup lays on you, it can be an expression of affection and comfort. It’s a sign that your dog is comfortable with you and feels safe around you. According to vets at PetMD, this sleep-cuddling behaviour is leftover from when they were puppies and used to snuggle up with their littermates to keep warm. So the next time your pup is laying on you, take it as a sign of love and appreciation!
Seeking attention
It is not uncommon for dogs to seek attention from their owners. This is especially true for puppies, as their survival depends on it. When a dog demands attention from you, it is their way of asking for something they want or need. If your dog approaches you for attention without barking or poking, it’s best to give them a few minutes of your time. Dogs can easily become frustrated and anxious when they are not getting the attention they need, which can lead to barking and other disruptive behaviours. Move away from your dog or put him in another room for a minute or two if you feel yourself losing patience. Your dog will understand that you are busy and will no longer feel the need to demand attention from you.
Anxiety Easing
It’s not unusual for dogs to lay on their owners when they’re feeling anxious. Separation anxiety is a common issue in dogs, and they may express it by seeking comfort from their owners. Dogs who are always left alone for long periods of time may become stressed and, as a result, seek out their owners for comfort and security. By lying on their owners, they are able to feel safe and secure in the knowledge that their human is around. If your dog is exhibiting signs of anxiety, such as pacing, panting, or barking, it’s essential to recognize this behaviour and take steps to help them cope with its stress.
To Feel Higher and More in Control
Dogs often feel higher and more in control when they are sitting on people. This behaviour is typical among puppies, as they are naturally curious about their environment and often want to explore everything, including their human owners. However, if this is an older dog who has recently started to sit on you, it may be a sign of anxiety or insecurity. In this case, providing your pup with additional comfort and reassurance is important. Additionally, it’s important to note the other behaviours accompanying the sitting, such as barking or growling. If these behaviours are present, it’s best to consult a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer for advice on handling the situation.
Affection and Comfort
The seventh reason why your dog may lay on you is for affection and comfort. Dogs are social animals and can sense when their owners are feeling down or need some love. They often cuddle up close to show their support and love. Dogs also feel comforted by physical contact and often lay on top of their owners to get a sense of warmth and safety. This behaviour can signify that your pup loves and trusts you and feels secure in your presence.
Puppyhood Behavior
As your beloved pup nears its first birthday, you may be tempted to think that they are now perfectly behaved and will listen to every word you say. But it’s important to remember that sensory development continues with hearing and sense of smell, as well as puppy teeth coming through and their eyes beginning to open. This is also the age where your pup may start sleep-cuddling, which is a leftover behaviour from when they were a puppy snuggling up with their litter to stay warm. It’s a sign of affection and comfort and completely natural.
To Claim Ownership
At nine months of age, your pup has adult teeth, and their jaw keeps getting stronger. The flimsy puppy toys that once held their attention are no match for the powerful jaws of a grown-up dog. If your adult dog is laying on you, this could be another way for them to assert their dominance and claim you as their own. By doing this, they are trying to make sure that other animals understand that you are off limits. As the leader of the pack, it is your job to be firm and consistent with your commands so that your dog knows who is in control.
As an Expression of Joy
Dogs have many ways of expressing joy; one is by laying on you. People often take this as a sign of affection, and it is, but it can also be an expression of joy. Dogs may lay on you when they are excited about something or when they are feeling especially happy. Some dogs may even jump up and down or wiggle their tail to show their joy. While these behaviours can be cute, it is important not to encourage them too much as it can lead to unwanted behaviours in the future.
Read our article on Dog Leaves Brown Spots On Bed (Causes).
