Why does my dog sit on me? | Best lap dog breeds

Dogs like to be close to their owners. In their hearts, all dogs want to be lap dog breeds.

Even if you create a cozy bed for your dog, this furry creature will always find ways to sit right on top of you. Do you know what that means?

Your boy wants a piece of you. As a pet owner, you should snuggle with your dog more often. If he wants to sit on you, make sure he’s not acting rude or weird. If your puppy is acting too clingy, you should train him not to sit on you at his whim. But whether your dog is on your lap, at your feet, or on your chest, it’s all just his way of showing that he loves you. 

Want to know why dogs prefer sitting on their owners? Here’s why dogs like to sit on their owners and a look at some of the best lap dog breeds.

Attention

Most of the time, a dog sits on his owner when he wants some playtime. Dogs need attention and care, just like family members. Dogs are social animals, so if you get a dog, be prepared to spend time with him. 

Dogs can’t ask verbally for attention, so sitting in the laps of their owners is their way of saying, “I need you.” If your puppy isn’t aggressively snapping or barking at you, consider it a gesture of love. 

Scent 

Sitting on their owners is a way for dogs to mark their territory and show ownership. Don’t worry that your pet is trying to dominate you. There are other, more aggressive ways for dogs to mark their territory, including urinating.

Sitting on your lap or chest is a relatively harmless way for your dog to claim you.

Expect your puppy to do this more often when you return home with the scent of another animal. Your dog is likely trying to reassure himself he’s still number one in your heart. This behavior also is more likely if other pets or children visit your home. Again, your pup wants to make sure he’s not being displaced.

Dogs also will climb into your lap if they feel like you’re ignoring them.

Breed behavior

Usually, smaller dogs are more likely to want to sit on their pet parents. They feel entirely safe snuggled into that warm spot. Know that your dog needs your attention and reassurance, especially if you have other pets or children.

Some larger dog breeds like English Mastiffs Great Danes also like to sit on their people. Big dogs want to show affection and love, just like tiny little puppies. The dogs often don’t realize just how big they are.

If you don’t mind letting your big dog sit on you, go ahead. But if the weight is too much, train him to sit nearby. 

Security

As a dog owner, you’re responsible not only for your dog’s physical wellbeing but their mental health, too. Some dogs like to keep track of their owners and sit on them so that they feel more confident and secure. Dogs are the most loyal animals on the planet, and they expect loyalty in return.

Dogs always give 100 percent to protect their people. Holding your dog on your lap lets you both realize you are safe together. 

Mostly, dogs sit on laps for their benefit. Being close to you lets them guess what you’re about to do. Are you getting ready to leave the house? Or start preparing food?

Dominance

Watch your puppy as he grows and develops to make sure he’s not showing signs of becoming aggressive. Some dogs sit on their owners to show dominance, which is not healthy. If you sense your dog is sitting on you to control your movements, you need to discourage that behavior. What might seem cute with a 6-pound puppy is potentially dangerous with a 60-pound dog. 

If your dog sits on you and starts barking, or growling, lift him off. If he’s acting this way, correct the behavior and do not encourage it. 

If your smaller dog sits on your lap when other dogs are around, it’s most likely because he is nervous. Just don’t let him use his vantage point of your lap to snap, bark, or snarl at the other dogs.

Cuddling

Some dogs are, by nature, cuddle bugs. If you’re sitting and watching TV, expect these dogs to hop into your lap and snuggle in for the night.

Most canines like to have physical contact with their owners and need it to feel physically and emotionally satisfied. Most dog owners enjoy it, too. And cuddling will make your bond stronger than ever. 

What are the best lap dog breeds?

Are you searching for the best lap dog breeds? Do you like to spend time with a puppy?

Spending quality time with your dog can help reduce your stress. Petting dogs releases the feel-good hormone oxytocin and can lower your heart rate and blood pressure.

So how do you find the best lap dog breeds? 

Maltese

This small, delicate dog is playful, confident, and loving. The Maltese is a true snuggler who will find ways to sit on his owner’s lap or chest. 

 

 

 

 

 

Black German Shepherd puppies

Black German Shepherd puppies want to be lap dogs. German Shepherds love to play, are easy to train, and love being with children.

Although people tend to think of Black German Shepherds as working dogs, they also make excellent family pets. 

 

 

Toy poodle

 

Toy poodles not only enjoy lap time with their owners, but they also want to impress their owners. These puppies love being the center of attention.

The breed isn’t the most social, so it’s essential to adopt this breed at a young age and spend time with friends, family, and other dogs to help your pup become well adjusted.

 

 

 

Havanese

The Havanese is a small dog and a perfect pick for a lap dog. This breed wants nothing but love and attention from its people. 

Havanese puppies are usually good with family members and especially with children. 

 

 

 

 

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

Not only is this dog breed beautiful, but it’s also brainy. The best thing about Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is that if you are an active person, they are more than happy to be active; if you are a couch potato, they will be content to just sit in your lap.

 

 

 

 

Cocker Spaniel

This is one of the cutest dog breeds, and it is considered as a good family dog. Cocker Spaniels love playing games and sitting on their owners. This dog breed is available in buff, liver, white and black colors. 

 

 

 

 

Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier is known for its compact size and big attitude. The dogs are gentle and amiable, and they quickly bond with children and other family members.

This is one of the first breeds established in the United States. Boston Terrier is known for their compact sizes and a big smile. Boston Terrier is gentle and amiable, which is why they can quickly bond with children and family members.

If you want a lap dog breed that requires minimal training, consider a Boston Terrier. 

 

 

 

 

Bichon Frise

Out of all the dog breeds, the Bichon Frise loves to cuddle the most with their owners. They don’t shed much, which makes them a perfect choice for people with allergies.

These fluffy little fellas are upbeat and cheerful and love to spend time with their families. 

 

 

 

Bottom line

It is pretty understandable and acceptable that dogs want to sit on their owners so they can spend quality time together. This is a behavior that is very common in dogs, and not anything to worry about.

Both dogs and their owners enjoy the warmth and affection of cuddle time. But, if you think it’s odd to have your dog sit on you, you can train your dog to sit by your side instead.

Just remember, physical contact with your puppy is critical to build and maintain a strong bond. Plus, it’s fun, who doesn’t love snuggle time with their favorite pup?

Emma Wick is an avid writer. Outside of work, she can most often be found exploring new places or hanging out with rescue dogs. Because she’s health-conscious, she enjoys trying new healthy recipes.