Why is my dog so clingy? Understanding the velcro dog

Updated 16/09/2024

Are you a pup parent who feels like they have two shadows? Ever shouted to the sky, ‘Why is my dog so clingy’? Well, we might know the answer to that. Stick with us and we’ll teach you all about clingy dogs, velcro dogs, needy dogs, and what’s considered a normal dog. Actually, scratch that last point, there is no such thing as a normal dog - we're sure the dogs and humans in your pack will agree. 

Rather than linger on the obvious signs of a clingy dog, we’ll ponder over things like ‘What is a velcro dog’ and ‘Why doesn’t my dog want life experiences without me’? Be patient and don’t worry, we’ll be with you every step of the way.

What is a velcro dog?

Velcro dogs are named after the sticky fabric that holds clothes and bags together - they’re clingy dogs who stick by your side, literally. If you find you can’t even use the bathroom without your dog insisting on joining you, know you are the pet parent or canine carer of a velcro dog.

Some dogs are born that way, and others can begin to develop this behavior at any point in their life. It can often be found in older dogs as they age, enjoy the comforts of home more, or simply start to lose their eyesight. They know they can rely on their human to help guide them around the house and keep to their routine.

Why is my dog so clingy?

Stress and anxiety

One of the most common reasons could be you have a dog with separation anxiety. Pups can develop separation anxiety at any stage of their life, but it most commonly begins in puppyhood. If your dog isn’t used to you not being around or has experienced a traumatic event where they’re scared you’ll leave, this can create a dog with separation anxiety.

In similar circumstances, if your dog is experiencing stress and anxiety from something new happening in their home, you're moving with a dog, or during times when they’re scared (any holiday fireworks are used, for example), they will most likely go to their greatest source of comfort: A family member.

Boredom

Just like a toddler who can walk, so too will dogs follow their humans around the house if they have nothing else to do. Dogs need to be mentally stimulated throughout the day - this can be in the form of puzzle toys, chewies, physical activities, or other types of exercise. Interactive toys are also a paw-some way to help retrain or soothe a dog with separation anxiety.

Being a velcro dog is in their breed

Some dogs are born made of velcro, or rather, are simply made to be velcro dogs. Often you’ll find it in breeds that were bred to be herding or working dogs - these pups need to have a great bond with their human and see them as a homing device. So, if you’re in a suburban environment just trying to go about your day, some doggos will think it’s time for work!

Clingy dog breeds include:

• Bernese Mountain Dogs
• Golden Retrievers
• Labradors
• St Bernards
• Australian Shepherds
• Border Collies
• German Shepherds
• Chihuahuas
• French Bulldogs

Of course, some pups are just clingy dog breeds - as much as French Bulldog and Chihuahua pet parents adore their small snuffles, even they know they weren’t made for farm labor…

Your dog’s clingy behavior is learned

You can’t teach an old dog new tricks - fluffing nonsense! While they may not always act like it, pooches are one of the smartest animals on earth and they can pick up new tricks or habits at any stage of their life. Calling your dog to stay close by offering food from the dinner table or whenever you’re in the kitchen, petting them every time they sit next to you, or encouraging them to lie on you with the reward of treats or pets, it’ll desensitize your dog towards independent behaviors. If they see you going somewhere, they’ll think it’s an opportunity to be fed or receive some love.

Illness or health issue

Pups are expressive creatures, they’ll often convey their emotions through barks, howls, and growls, but also by being a needy dog. If a pup isn’t feeling well they will often go to their pet parents for comfort and familiarity, a tell-tail sign they need some help. You’ll know your fur family best, so if you know they’re not a velcro dog, this isn’t their usual way of trying to ask for attention, or it’s a sudden change, you need to talk to your vet. A clingy dog could be the early symptoms of something else.

Meet our veterinary expert, Liam

This article has been checked by veterinarian Dr Liam Bullock BVSc (Hons) MRCVS.

As a small animal vet, Liam has spent time working in both first-opinion and referral-level practices. After gaining a strong affinity for educating owners about their pets, Liam decided to dedicate some of his non-clinical time to tutoring students, who were preparing for exams or struggling at school. By combining a passion for teaching others, and a keen interest in raising awareness about animal health issues, Liam decided to begin writing veterinary content. This now also allows him to raise awareness of important animal health issues outside of the consultation room.

Do you have or know a velcro dog? Perhaps you have your own tips and tricks for helping a cling dog? If you do, head to our Community Forum to spread the love, learn from other pet people, or share your knowledge about pup pals. Otherwise, check out our suggestions for dog and puppy training for beginners to help needy dogs learn to be a bit more independent.