09/20/2025
VELCRO DOGS
Dogs that follow us everywhere and always want to be with us.
When I say, "I'M JUST GOING TO THE BATHROOM." My dogs hear: “FAMILY MEETING, ASSEMBLE NOW!" – I’m not sure where this saying originates from, but it’s so true.
Should we be concerned because by allowing dogs to do this, we might be encouraging separation distress (signs of stress and / or panic either when a dog thinks we are about to leave or what they do after we leave?
Are we encouraging neediness, clinginess, or demanding behavior, or is this behavior a normal, natural need of a social being that is actually a compliment as to the way our dogs feel about us?
It can be a fine line, and it’s always a good idea to encourage some independence and alone time to build self-confidence and resilience, especially in puppies, younger dogs, or rescues.
It’s also a subject that, like so many others, depends on the individual dog, history, and circumstances.
This post is about recognising and accepting that the need to be with us and follow us around is a very normal and natural behavior.
It’s a compliment that says “I feel safe with you, you are so important to me, I feel connected to you, I trust you, have a bond with you, being with you makes me happy!”
That’s not to say that dogs that don’t follow us around don’t feel that way about us!
Each dog is an individual with different social preferences.
Some dogs are loners, more independent, and enjoy spending time alone.
Older dogs and seniors who are secure and confident in their environment may just not feel the need to be with us all the time.
If you have a Velcro dog that isn’t stressed or panicked when you leave home, accept the compliment. You’ve clearly earned it!
