Have you ever wondered why your dog likes to lay on you? Is it because they love you, or is there another reason? The answer is that there are many reasons why your dog might lay on you, and it depends on the dog. Here are a few of the most common causes.
The Root of the Behavior
Attention Seeking Behaviors
One of the most common reasons other dogs lay on their owner is because they want attention. This is especially true if the dog is typically very active and playful but suddenly becomes calm and still when they lay on you.
If you find your dog laying on you, they might want you to pet them, play with them, or talk to them. Other dogs are social creatures, seeking attention is a part of them so giving them the attention they need is essential.
They’re Trying to Tell You Something
Another common reason dogs tend to lay on their owner is because they’re trying to tell them something. For example, if your dog lays on you and won’t move, it might be because dogs suffering in pain and need help. Or, if your dog lays on you and then starts licking your face, they might be trying to tell you that they’re hungry.
So, again, pay attention to your dog’s body language and see if you can figure out what they’re trying to say.
They Want to Have a Close Bond With You
Dogs are very loyal creatures, and one of the ways they show their loyalty is by wanting to be close to their owners. So when your dog lays on you, it says that they want a body heat, feel safe and comfortable with you and want to be close to you. This signifies a strong bond between you and your dog, so cherish it!
Encouraging the Behavior of Dog Laying on Me
You first need to create a positive association in your dog’s mind between you and the act of lying down. This can be done by offering treats or verbal praise whenever your dog lies down near you or on top of you.
In time, your dog will begin to see lying down as something that pleases you and will want to do it more often.
Another way to encourage your dog to lie on you is by making it part of their daily routine. If lying on you is something they do every day, it will become second nature to them, and they’ll be more likely to do it without being prompted. This can be accomplished by incorporating a short session of lying down into your daily walks or playtime together.
Finally, if you want your dogs laying on you, it’s essential to ensure they are comfortable doing so. This means having a soft surface for them to lie on and ensuring that there are no objects nearby that could potentially hurt them. Once you’ve created a safe and comfortable space for your dog, they’ll likely want to lay on you more than ever as it helps their anxiety disorder as well.
Why Having Your Dog Lay on You is Good?
It’s a sign of affection.
Dogs are social creatures and show affection for their owner to remain close in many different ways. One way is through physical touch, and that’s why your dog likes to lay on you. They want to be close to you and feel your warmth. So next time your dog jumps on you, take it as a compliment!
It can help relieve anxiety.
Snuggling with your dog can help you feel better if you’re feeling stressed or anxious. Dogs have a calming effect on their humans, and the simple act of petting them can help lower your blood pressure and heart rate.
So if you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a break and cuddle with your pup—it’ll do you both some good.
My dog sleeps in my bed.
Having your dog sleep in bed with you might not be ideal from a hygiene standpoint, but it has some benefits! Studies have shown that many dog owners who sleep with their dogs in the room (but not in the bed) have better sleep quality than those who don’t.
And even if your dog doesn’t sleep in bed with you, as the owner, simply having them nearby can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, both of which are key to a good night’s sleep.
It can boost immunity.
Dogs carry all sorts of bacteria—some of which is good for us! When we pet them or allow them to lick us, we expose ourselves to this bacteria, which helps boost our immunity. This is especially beneficial for young children whose immune systems are still developing.
So next time your dog wants to lay on you or kiss you, don’t hesitate.
Improves mood and overall mental health.
Dogs have a way of making us feel happy and loved, which can improve our mood and overall mental health. One study found that a dog owner had lower levels of depression and loneliness than those who didn’t own dogs. So if you’re feeling down in the dumps, spending some time with dog snuggles will cheer you up.
Why Is It Bad When Dog Lays On Me?
It’s a Dominance Thing
If you allow your dog to lay on you, they may start to see themselves as the alpha in the relationship. And while that may not seem like a big deal at first, it can lead to serious behavioral problems.
For example, an alpha dog may start to exhibit aggressive behaviors or become very possessive of you and your things.
They Could Be Hurting You Without Realizing It
Even if your dog is small, it could unintentionally hurt you when it lays on you. Dogs have sharp nails that can easily scratch your skin, and their wiggling around could leave you with bruises.
Not to mention that dogs carry all sorts of bacteria on their fur that could make you sick.
You’re Encouraging Bad Behavior
Every time you let your dog lay on you, you’re rewarding them for bad behavior. And trust us, they know it! So if you want them to stop jumping on people or getting up on furniture, then you need to be consistent with your rules and not make any exceptions—no matter how much they give you those puppy dog eyes.
It’s Uncomfortable
We know, we know—it feels pretty good when your furry friend lays down on top of you. But the truth is, it’s not always comfortable for them. Their joints and muscles can start to ache after a while, especially if they’re in an awkward position.
So instead of letting them lay on you, try giving them a comfy dog bed to lounge in instead. They’ll be much more comfortable—and so will you.
You’re Not the Only One Who Needs Personal Space
Just like humans, dogs need their personal space too—and that includes not being constantly bombarded with hugs and kisses from their owners (no matter how much they love them). So instead of letting them lay on top of you, try giving them gentle pats and scratches. They’ll still feel loved—and you’ll still get some much-needed personal space.
Why Your Dog Doesn’t Lay on Anyone Else?
Lack of Socialization
One of the most common reasons your dog may not be laying on anyone else is because they lack socialization. If your dog hasn’t been properly socialized, it may be scared of other people and animals. This can prevent your dog from being comfortable around other people and animals, making it difficult for them to lay on anyone else.
Separation Anxiety
Another reason your dog may not be lying to anyone else is separation anxiety. If your dog is anxious when you’re not around, it may not want to lay on anyone else because it would mean being away from you. Separation anxiety is a severe condition that should be treated by a professional.
Possessiveness
Another possibility is that your dog is possessive of you and doesn’t want to share you with anyone else. This can be a problem if your dog is aggressive toward other people or animals. If your dog is possessive, it’s essential to get help from a professional so they can learn to share you with others healthily.
They haven’t been adequately introduced
If you bring your dog around new people too quickly, they can get overwhelmed and might not want to be close to them. It’s important to slowly introduce your dog to new people, so they have time to warm up to them.
They’re not comfortable with others
Many dogs can sense when someone is anxious or stressed, and if they pick up on those vibes from someone, they might not want to be around them.
So if you want your dog to feel comfortable around other people, it’s essential that you only introduce them to people who are calm and relaxed.
They prefer their owners
Finally, many dogs prefer the company of their owners and don’t care for other people. That’s perfectly normal! Just because your dog doesn’t want to lay on other people doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with them. Some dogs are naturally more independent than others and are perfectly content lying alone.
Teach a Dog to Lay on You Without Smothering You
The first thing you need to do is create a positive association with the behavior. For example, when your dog lays on you, they should be rewarded with something they love—like a treat or a belly rub. Once your dog has made the connection between this behavior and getting something they want, they will be more likely to do it again.
Next, you need to be consistent in your commands. When you want your dog to lie down next to you, use the exact phrase each time, so they know what you want them to do. “Lay down” or “lie down” are both excellent options.
Once your dog understands the command, start adding in hand gestures or even using an exaggerated voice so they know what you mean.
Finally, don’t forget to practice! Like with anything else in life, practice makes perfect. The more times you go through the motions with your dog, the better they will become at understanding and following your commands. After a while, it will become second nature for them—and you!
5 Most Affectionate Dog Breeds You Can Have As A Pet
Labrador Retriever
Labradors are known for their friendly dispositions and outgoing personalities. They’re also known for being great with children and other animals. Labs breed of dog finds loving to play fetch and go for walks, but they’re just as happy curling up on the couch with their humans for a movie night.
Golden Retriever
Much like their Labrador cousins, Golden Retrievers are gentle, social animals, and loving dogs that make great family pets. They’re also knowledgeable, which makes them easy to train. Goldens love to be active, but they’re just as content lying at your feet while you read or watch TV.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small dog known for being extremely affectionate. Cavaliers are gentle souls who enjoy being close to their humans and receiving lots of love and attention. They make ideal lapdogs and are perfect for seniors or anyone who wants a low-key companion.
Beagle
Beagles are merry little dogs that enjoy being around people and other animals. They have a reputation for a good behavior, being sweet and loving, and they’re often used as therapy dogs because of their calming nature. Beagles do best in homes where someone is around most of the time, as they get lonely when left alone for too long.
Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are small, compact dogs with prominent personalities. They’re known to be very good at showing affection with their humans and to seek attention and love. Bostons are also relatively easy to train and make excellent watchdog companions.
4 Ways to Keep Your Dog From Laying on You
1. Put a blanket on the floor next to you and train your dog to lay on that instead. This will take some time and patience, but eventually, your dog will get the hint.
2. If your dog is small enough, pick them up and move them to another room when they try to lay on you. This way, they’ll understand that they’re not welcome in the room where you are.
3. Get a spray bottle and fill it with water. Give them a quick water spray when your dog tries to lay on you. They’ll soon learn that this behavior is not tolerated.
4. Ignore your dog completely when they try to lay on you. Turn away from them, don’t make eye contact, and don’t speak to them. Eventually, they’ll get the message that this behavior will not get them the attention they want from you.
Final Thoughts
There you have it! The next time your dog tries to lay on you, use one of these four methods to stop them. With some time and patience, your dog will learn that this behavior is not welcome and will start to leave you alone. Do you have any other tips for keeping dogs from lying on you?
Frequently Asked Questions
WHY DOES MY DOG LAY ON TOP OF ME IN BED?
Your dog may sleep on top of you for many reasons, but the most common sense is that they love and need their human companions. They want to feel safe in this world with someone who will always be there for them no matter what happens or where life takes them.
WHY DOES MY DOG LAY ON ME AND NOT MY HUSBAND?
The reason your dogs lay on you over your husband is because of the way that they smell. There aren’t many scents that can make a dog’s eyes water, but some strong smells will discourage them from choosing to stay by yours instead—including alcohol or smoke, for example.
HOW DO DOGS CHOOSE WHO TO SLEEP WITH?
Sleeping is integral to life; if your dog loves to snuggle up with you, it’s not alone. Dogs often choose sleeping spots based on how much they smell like the pack leader or owner – which means that even though there may be another bed in sight for them (or near!), chances are good this will become their new ” restores” spot.
DO DOGS SLEEP WITH ALPHA HUMANS?
If you’re looking for ways to establish yourself as the alpha of your pack, then humans and dogs must know their place. For example: don’t let an aggressive pooch sleep next door or on top of human beds! The best bet is always to have a doggie mattress right by yours – this will show them who rules supreme in any situation (even when they try pushing back).
