Does your dog follow you from room to room? Does it seem like they always need to be as close to you as possible? While dogs are known for getting very attached to their human family members, excessive clinginess can make it difficult for you to relax or get work done. Here’s how you can help your velcro dog learn to become more independent.
What’s Normal For Your Dog?
If you haven’t had your dog for very long, and you are a brand new dog owner or previously owned independent dogs, you may need some time to adjust to your new pup’s love for attention. Clinginess is not necessarily a sign of separation anxiety.
How To Help Your Dog Become More Independent
If you give your dog more spaces of their own, they may naturally spend less time clinging to you. Comfy dog beds in your living room, bedroom, and even kitchen can make it possible for your dog to stay in the same vicinity as you without making you feel cramped.
It’s possible that your dog simply needs more mental stimulation and seeks out your attention because they are bored. Dogs sleep for up to 16 hours per day, so it is not necessary for you to entertain them at all times, just enough to help tire them out.
If you’re new to training, try teaching basic obedience on a regular basis with core skills like sit, stay, and come. For those not new to training, you can try these fun enrichment activities for highly intelligent dogs. You can also use hands-off activities like a Kong, puzzle toy, and snuffle mat to help your dog stay entertained. Even a simple chew like a raw meaty bone can provide mental enrichment.
Crate training can also help your dog learn to be more independent. It’s important that you go at your dog’s pace so that crating is never unpleasant for them. Start with just five minutes at a time while you’re in your dog’s line of sight, preferably with a long-lasting treat or chew. By slowly building up the amount of time your dog is crated, you can teach them to actually enjoy spending time alone.
When Your Dog Suddenly Becomes Clingy
Any sudden changes in your dog’s behaviour might be caused by a new health issue. Some dogs become clingy when they’re in pain. Others may show strange behaviours when they’re in heat.
Senior dogs can become more clingy when they have canine cognitive dysfunction or “dog dementia”. They may also stay close to you when their senses have diminished. It’s worthwhile to see your vet for a checkup when your dog of any age has a sudden change in their temperament.
Your dog may even be responding to a change in your disposition. If you’ve been extra stressed, sad, or upset, your dog may have caught on. Don’t rule out how fluctuations in your mood or your hormones can affect your dog.
Some dog owners also report their dogs becoming clingy when they have become pregnant, even before they’ve taken a test.
Professional Help For Clingy Dogs
Clinginess can develop into separation anxiety very easily, especially if you have unrealistic expectations or are simply not able to provide the comfort and attention your dog needs when they need it.
Working with a professional dog trainer who uses science-based positive reinforcement techniques is the best way to modify behaviour without creating a fear of abandonment. Healthy Houndz dog training offers private, in-home training for dog parents in Toronto and North York and virtual training services via Zoom for dog parents around the world.
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