• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
DogsBestLife.com logo

Dog's Best Life

The information you need to keep your dog happy, healthy, playful and loyal.

  • Top Stories
  • Blog
  • What We Do
  • About Us
  • Contact Us

Velcro dog: Why does my dog take my spot when I get up?

Posted March 31, 2023

Owner pets the dog on the couch. Dogs love to be close to you. Dogs that feel anxious may be more likely to exhibit seat-stealing behaviors. Your dog might feel extra secure when surrounded by your scent; plus, it knows there's a good chance you'll return to your favorite spot soon.
Dogs that feel anxious may be more likely to exhibit seat-stealing behaviors. Your dog might feel extra secure when surrounded by your scent; plus, it knows there’s a good chance you’ll return to your favorite spot soon.

Let’s set the scene: you’ve established the ideal position on your couch after a long day. You have the throw pillows fluffed just right, and your laptop sits at the perfect angle for a proper Netflix binge. You momentarily leave your cozy nest to grab a snack from the kitchen, but upon returning to the couch, your canine pal is sitting in your spot!

You’ve undoubtedly experienced this scenario or one like it; dogs are firm believers in the age-old proverb: “Move your feet, lose your seat.”

Even so, is there perhaps another reason behind this impertinent behavior?

The simple answer is your dog likes to be close to you. That may mean snuggling on your lap, sitting on your feet, or stealing your spot if you vacate it.

Dogs like to feel close to you

The main reason that your dog will steal your spot is to connect with you.

There’s a strong likelihood that your preferred location on the couch smells like you.

Plus, your cushion is cozy and warm if you’ve lounged around. You might often still be seated, yet your dog will insist on sitting beside you.

To a dog, this is part of the routine. You get home from work, crack open a beer and spend time on the couch; your furry companion wants to be included.

Dogs feel safe in your spot

Dog owners should remember that dogs retain a pack mentality, and their basic survival instincts form the foundation of many current canine behaviors.

Your home, particularly the places in it where you sleep and snuggle, becomes your dog’s “den.” Dogs feel safe and secure while in their dens, and they’ll protect them if need be.

So, when the “alpha” (aka, you) leaves the most comfortable spot on the couch, the beta dog undoubtedly feels inclined to curl up in that same spot.

Bernese Mountain Dog puppy snuggles on the owner's lap. Your dog loves to be close to you on the couch for a special bonding experience. Your scent and warmth make it inviting to steal your spot.
Your dog loves to be close to you on the couch for a special bonding experience. Your scent and warmth make it inviting to steal your spot.

Dogs can be territorial

In some cases, dogs sit close to you or steal your seat to mark their territory and show dominance.

This behavior is widespread when other dogs are in the household, as canines often test each other’s boundaries.

Dogs with a history of abuse might also demonstrate specific territorial patterns.

Is this a problem behavior?

It depends — if you and your dog have a strong relationship, it probably just wants the comfort of your scent and warmth.

If that’s the case, give your dog a little shove when you return to the couch. You have nothing to worry about if your pup scoots over without a fuss. Just be sure to give your dog some extra cuddles.

Your dog might whine or remain close to you once you stay seated. In this case, you might have a “Velcro dog,” or an overly clingy and anxious pet.

Dogs that feel anxious may be more likely to exhibit seat-stealing behaviors. Your dog might feel extra secure when surrounded by your scent; plus, it knows there’s a good chance you’ll return to your favorite spot soon.

Separation anxiety can lead to bigger problems, so you’ll want to make sure your dog isn’t displaying other common signs of this condition, such as destructive behavior or excessive barking, especially when you leave home.

You should call a dog trainer if your dog growls or appears threatening when you ask it to scoot over.

Territorial dogs can show aggression and even bite their owners. You need to reassert your authority before the situation escalates calmly.

How to reclaim your seat

Dogs respond well to patient, consistent training with rewards for desirable behavior.

Select your command word (such as “off”) to direct your dog to move out of your spot. As soon as it moves, offer plenty of verbal praise and a treat.

Your dog might need a little shove to help it get the message the first few times, but for certain dog breeds, this is easier said than done (good luck moving a Great Dane out of your seat).

The goal is for your dog to respectfully give your spot back to you without much extra motivation.

Discuss your concerns with a trainer or your vet if you think your dog might suffer from separation anxiety.

Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise and stimulation throughout the day. Practice crate training so your dog has a safe, secure place within the household.

Maybe consider gentle medications such as CBD treats.

Finally, don’t make too much fanfare when you leave the house or return home; these should be calm, everyday events within your dog’s daily routine.

Are puppy kisses safe? Should you let your dog lick your face?

Related Posts

  • Cocker Spaniel gives owner kisses. Dogs love showing affection, and licking is one of their primary forms of expression.
    Does my dog show love? Understand 12 signs of affection from dogs

    But how do dogs show their love? Let's take a…

  • Woman hugs Bolognese puppy. Show your dog affection by using a gentle touch, providing favorite treats, and creating a safe space for your dog.
    7 easy ways to show your dog affection

    Show your dog affection by using a gentle touch, providing…

  • Happy Cardigan Welsh Corgi squints while smiling. Dogs squint their eyes to appease their owners, so it's typically a friendly expression.
    Do dogs smile? A dog owner's guide to canine facial expressions

    Do dogs smile? Your dog uses its face to communicate,…

  • Cavalier King Charles Spaniel gives his owner puppy dog eyes, powerful dog facial expressions.
    Dogs developed facial expressions to communicate with people

    Dog facial expressions have developed so they can mimic human…

Share this post:

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Pinterest Share on Email Share on Reddit

Filed Under: Dog Training, Home Page Tagged With: Dog manners

« Previous Post
Next Post »

Primary Sidebar

Follow Us

Categories

  • Adoption
  • Dog Breeds
  • Dog Facts
  • Dog Fun
  • Dog Grooming
  • Dog Health
  • Dog Inspirations
  • Dog Training
  • Dog Travel
  • Holidays
  • Home Page
  • Puppies
  • Top Stories

Featured Posts

  • Tricolor Australian shepherd in front of white background. Take steps to stop dog pawing.

    Canine body language: What’s your dog saying with his paws?

  • Cute corgi puppy wrapped in a blanket. Talk with your vet about starting your dog on medication to protect him from parasites including flea and tick prevention, as well as heartworm prevention.

    Puppy training 101: 10 tips to prepare your dog for success

  • Thinking of getting a furry friend? Use the DogsBestLife.com perfect dog breed quiz to find the perfect canine companion.

    Take our dog breed quiz to discover the perfect breed for you!

Tags

RottweilerVeterinarianPuppy-proofTwo dogsPotty trainingSeparation anxietyPoodleWorking dogsWaterYorkshire terrierSmall dogsVacation dog careTicksPandemicThanksgivingPetfinder.comPit bullSheddingtraining tipsOld dogsService dogsRescue dogSocializationPomeranianPet sitterPuppy kindergartenOutdoor activitiesPet parentsPawValentine's Day

Footer

Quick Links

  • Home
  • Top Stories
  • Blog
  • What We Do
  • About Us
  • Contact Us

Recent Posts

  • 5 canine care tips to help your Pitbull live longer
    Prolong your Pitbull's lifespan by providing a positive environment, exercise, health care and proper nutrition. […]
  • 7 ways to sedate dog to keep calm when using nail clippers
    To make nail trimming easier, sedate your pup and use a good pair of nail clippers. There is no need to spend money paying a groomer or your vet. […]
  • Take steps to help older dog adjust when you add new dog
    Older dogs usually accept a new dog, but some struggle. Let the dogs work it out. Step in only if the situation could become violent. […]
  • Use 10 fun training games to teach your dog new tricks
    Training games strengthen bonds between you and your dog while providing mental stimulation, physical exercise, and positive reinforcement. […]

Get Our Newsletter

Get more news to help keep your dog healthy delivered right to your inbox. Sign up for DogsBestLife.com's monthly newsletter.

© Copyright 2023 DogsBestLife.com online magazine · All Rights Reserved · Privacy
Get Our Free Monthly Newsletter

Get more news to help keep your dog healthy delivered right to your inbox. Sign up for DogsBestLife.com's monthly newsletter.