Does your dog follow you everywhere you go? If your puppy is always glued to your side, you have what is commonly called a velcro dog. The name comes from the hook-and-loop fastener used to hold the fabric together. These dogs always want to be with their own people and, depending on the breed, they can be very protective. Although some people are annoyed by dogs’ need to velcro, this clinging behavior is natural and desirable for some breeds.
Top 9 Velcro Dog Breeds:
Any dog can display Velcro dog behaviors, but there are dog breeds that have a solid reputation for their Velcro tendencies. Here are the most affectionate dog breeds:
Affectionate dog behavior explained
Dog breeds with Velcro personalities were developed specifically to be close to their people. Some of these dogs were raised as companion dogs and attentive to people’s feelings; other races were created to work side by side with humans. For these dogs, clingy behavior is a breed-specific trait and is desirable. This is something to consider before getting a dog. If you want a more independent companion, these dogs are not the breed for you. A real Velcro dog is confident and well socializedbut if you have the chance, he will always choose to be close to you.
OUR dog breeds section provides insight into finding the right dog for your lifestyle.
Velcro Dogs and Safety Risks
If your dog always wants to be with you, that’s wonderful, but it can also pose a safety issue. If you find yourself tripping over your dog who is literally underfoot, create a training plan to keep you and your dog safe. Here’s how:
- Teach your dog to go to his bed or another designated, out-of-the-way spot.
- Lure him there with a treat or toy.
- Then, reward your dog with praise and treats for being on his bed or in the designated spot.
- Repeat these steps until your dog can lie down in his bed on time.
The goal is for your dog to view his bed as a nurturing place, so you don’t trip over him while you’re cooking or moving around the house.
The difference between Velcro and anxious behavior:
The Velcro dog’s temperament is not the same as a dog with separation anxiety, insecurity or feeling uncomfortable alone. Dogs with Velcro dog syndrome prefer to spend time with others, but they are also perfectly capable of being alone. Anxious dogs become anxious or uncomfortable when alone. For anxious dogs, contact your veterinarian to see if there is an underlying medical problem. Work with a dog trainer who uses positive reinforcement techniques to help your dog learn new coping skills. Likewise, if your dog suddenly starts sticking to you like Velcro and this is not his normal temperament, it could indicate that he is in pain or has another underlying health problem.
If you notice a change in your dog’s temperament, make an appointment with your veterinarian immediately to determine if there is a medical cause for the change in behavior.