Why does my dog always follow me around?
It’s a sign your dog trusts you and loves you. If your dog follows you closely, it could be a sign they are bored, looking for something, feeling scared, or just being curious. This is part of their social behavior. To maintain a good relationship, they should be able to observe and follow your actions. Dogs are naturally inclined to want to be near their owners. However, some dogs can become too attached or anxious when they leave. You can make your dog more confident but you should always consult your veterinarian or a behaviorist if they aren’t feeling well.
Your dog loves you
It’s a sign your dog loves you and follows you everywhere. The hormone oxytocin releases when dogs have a good relationship with people they like. Oxytocin, also known as the “love hormone”, makes you feel warm and fuzzy around people you love. Dogs are social creatures and enjoy spending time with their owners. Your dog considers you their whole world, and spending time with you is an important part of his life. They feel safe, secure, and happy when they are with you. Although they might not be able to define ‘personal space,’ the fact they are willing to spend time with you is a great compliment.
Follow you and they will reap the rewards
How do you respond to your dog following you around? Are you more likely to ignore your dog or give them a hug, a cuddle, or even food? Your dog may have learned that following you around will bring them good things. It encourages your dog to continue following you by giving them attention, reassurance, and treats each time.
They are bored
Dogs might follow you around looking for something to do. You might find it more entertaining to show your dog what you’re doing, especially if you offer a reward or stroke. You should ask yourself if your dog gets enough mental and/or physical stimulation. If not, you might need to look for other ways to make their lives more interesting, like giving them chew toys, food puzzles, or longer walks.
They want to know the truth
Dogs love to be curious and are naturally curious. Dogs follow you around because they believe you are the one who knows everything and is the best source of information. Due to their curious nature and fear of missing out, they are often constantly under your feet, snooping around every corner.
They are waiting for you
Dogs can learn their daily routines very well. Your dog will likely know when it is time to walk or get fed and may follow your lead around the house, hurrying you along. Dogs can also read our body language and pick up clues about what we are thinking. Dogs will follow you around if you plan to do something exciting.
They are trying to tell your something
You can follow your dog if they are barking, whining, or pacing around. You may find that your dog needs more water, more food, or to go outside for the toilet. Your dog may become more attached to you or follow you around, which could indicate that they are feeling sick. Consult your veterinarian if you are concerned about your dog’s health.
It is a natural behavior
Your dog will follow you around, it is part of his natural social behavior. To maintain a good relationship with your owner, he needs to be able to observe and follow you wherever you go. Allelomimetic behavior is a type of behavior that serves many purposes. It’s a way to build and sustain social bonds. It is self-preservation behavior – it is good to be with someone you trust and to copy their behavior.
They are afraid
Your dog will see you as their protector and guardian, keeping them safe and secure. Some dogs may be afraid of loud noises like fireworks and thunderstorms. They might follow you around looking for comfort. Your dog may cling to you if they are afraid. Their ears may become pierced and their eyes may open wider. They may also be more anxious than usual. They may be more comfortable being close to you if they’re scared. There are many ways to make your dog feel safe and comfortable during thunderstorms.
Is my dog prone to separation anxiety?
It’s important to know the difference between a dog who enjoys being around you and one that is anxious about you leaving. Separation anxiety causes dogs to become anxious when they’re away from their owners. This can affect their mental and physical health.
Separation anxiety in dogs is very common and will likely increase due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Separation anxiety causes dogs to follow their owners around the house, and they become more anxious before and after their owner leaves.
- Barking
- Accidents in the home
- Chewing furniture, shoes, or being generally destructive, especially near windows or the front door
- Some dogs will eventually settle down while others might not.
Stress can cause long-term mental and physical health problems. If you suspect your dog might have separation anxiety, it is important to let them know immediately. Talk to your vet or an animal behaviorist. As soon as possible
How to get your dog to stop following you everywhere
Your bond with your dog is strong. They deserve lots of positive attention from their human. However, this should go hand in hand when helping them to cope with the times when you aren’t there. Here are some tips and tricks to make your dog happier and allow you the time you sometimes need.
- Keep your dog entertained. Give them something to chew on, a toy, or a food-filled puzzle to distract them. Toy rotation is a good idea if your dog owns many toys. To keep them interested and excited, you could give some away and bring them back.
- You can help your dog to get used to being alone while also allowing them to see through the gate. You can give your dog a toy or food puzzle to distract them if they are anxious.
- Pay attention to them. Encourage them when they don’t follow you around anymore and start to settle down or do something else. Let them know that you are encouraging them and that they’re doing what they want.
- Take a look at your behavior. Are your dogs paying attention to you when you walk around? You may be encouraging your dog to follow you around if so. Give them less attention and encourage them to settle down or do something else.
- Don’t punish your dog if they follow you around because they are anxious. This could cause them to feel more stressed, and worsen the situation.
- Get your dog lots of exercises every day. Take your dog on longer or shorter walks. Playing with a ball or a game can make your dog feel happier.
- Don’t be silent. Leave the radio or TV on when you go out. This will make the house feel more open and welcoming.
- Teach your dog to “stay”. Start by getting to know them and gradually increase the distance between you. Begin by being one step away, then gradually increase the distance to a different area. Encourage them and take your time.
- Be calm and friendly with your dog.
- Encourage them to socialize. Allow your dog to have many opportunities to get to know other dogs and people. This will help build their confidence.
- Get your dog to sleep in their bed. Give them toys and treats to encourage them to stay there. To encourage your dog to stay in their bed, you can leave treats and toys near it.
- Get help from others Take your dog on a walk with other adults if you are feeling particularly attached.
- Build your dog’s confidence by taking part in an activity such as agility or obedience, flyball, or rally.
- You can play games in your house. You can encourage your dog’s enjoyment of being away by playing hide and seek or scent work games.
- Get rid of the habit of letting your dog get up whenever you leave. Keep them still seated until they are settled. Next, get up and walk out of the room. If they follow you around, you can walk around the room until you get bored. Next, try to leave the room. Continue to follow them until they stop following you. It doesn’t have to be a game. Just ignore them until you get bored.
It can take a lot of work to train your dog to be comfortable in their own company. However, it will make your dog more confident. If you feel that you are not making progress after trying a few of these methods, you can always consult a behaviorist to get more advice.
My dog follows me everywhere. When should I seek help?
Talk to your vet and a behaviorist if:
- Your dog might be experiencing anxiety.
- Your dog is in danger
- You worry that their behavior is worsening
- If your dog is acting out, it’s okay to have your space.
Which breeds are most likely to follow your lead?
The diverse variety of breeds we have today is the result of thousands of years of breeding dogs by humans. Breeders selected the best traits for each breed to meet their purpose. These traits are often reflected in their daily behavior and have been hard-wired into dogs over time. Because it is part of their nature, some breeds are more likely to follow you around your house.
Dogs that have been trained to be with their masters, spending time together, watching them closely and waiting for their next instructions, may be more inclined to stay with you. Some examples might be:
- Hungarian Vizslas
- Labrador Retrievers
- Border Collies
- Golden Retrievers
- Shetland Sheepdogs
Some Toy breeds were bred to be lap dogs. They may follow you around looking for snuggles, or they might be more comfortable in your arms. These could include:
- Affenpinschers
- Chihuahuas
- Maltese
- Pugs
- French Bulldogs
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
Breeds that were raised to guard their owners may prefer to stay close to them.
- German Shepherds
- Dobermann
Is my dog following me suddenly?
It could be an indication that your dog is having trouble following you around in the house. You may notice that your dog is not feeling well or has a problem with their sight or hearing. You could have a dog that is anxious or afraid of their surroundings, or they may have experienced trauma. You should have your dog checked by a vet if this behavior persists.
Why does my dog follow me everywhere I go?
Young animals are taught who their caregivers will be during crucial developmental stages. This helps to increase their chances of survival. It’s possible for your puppy to have a relationship with you since birth. They may feel more secure and safe if you are there to look after them.
Why is my dog following me, but not anyone else? Do dogs have a favorite person or thing to do with their time?
It’s possible that your dog follows you around the house, but you are the one who provides the most. This could be food, love, care, or fun. It is as easy as if you are the person in your family who takes care of your dog best. Consider it a compliment!
Why does my senior dog follow me?
Dogs can need additional support as they age. A reduced ability to hear, see, smell, and feel may make them more dependent on your care. Dog dementia can also affect older dogs. Talk to your vet if you have concerns about your dog’s overall health.
Why does my rescue dog always follow me around?
It’s possible for your rescue dog to follow you around a lot. Although it’s impossible to determine what your dog has been through, it is possible that they have experienced some difficulties in the past. Talk to your local behaviorist or dog trainer if you are worried about your dog.
My dog follows me to the toilet.
Because they are curious about what you are doing, your dog might join you for a toilet break. Dogs see the world differently than humans. Dogs perceive the world differently because of their keen sense of smell. A bathroom is full of fascinating odors and rich information. Even though it may not sound like your idea of stimulation, many dogs find it to be a delight for their senses.
Why does my puppy follow my older dog around?
Because your puppy might follow an older dog, it is natural for them to do so. This helps with social bonding and acting in a group. They also learn the best places to take a nap and how to fit in with your family by following older dogs around.