Does your dog follow you wherever you go? If your pup is always glued to your side, you have what is commonly referred to as a Velcro dog. The name comes from the hook-and-loop closure used to hold the fabric together. These dogs always want to be with their people, and depending on the breed, they can be very protective. Although some people are annoyed by the need for Velcro dogs, this clingy 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 strong reputation for their Velcro tendencies. Here are the most affectionate dog breeds:
Explanation of the affectionate behavior of dogs
Dog breeds with a Velcro personality were developed specifically to be close to their people. Some of these dogs were bred 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 socialized, but if given the chance, he will always choose to be around you.
Our dog breeds section helps you find the right dog for your lifestyle.
Velcro Dogs and Safety Hazards
If your dog always wants to be with you, that’s great, but it can also be 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 area that is out of the way.
- Lure him in 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 go to bed at the right time.
The goal is for your dog to see his bed as a rewarding place, so you don’t trip over him while cooking or moving around your house.
The difference between Velcro and anxious behavior:
The temperament of a velcro dog is not the same as a dog with separation anxiety, insecurity, or feeling uncomfortable on their own. Dogs with Velcro Dog Syndrome prefer spending time with their people, but they are also perfectly capable of being alone. Anxious dogs become distressed 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 that’s not his normal temperament, it could be a sign that he’s in pain or has some other underlying health condition.
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.
