You must have noticed your canine friend stick close to you, and also follow you all around the house. It might seem rather cute and would make you go “aww”, but it could be a potential syndrome your dog is experiencing.
You may not have a single iota about it, but dogs that tend to stick to you like this for hours and maybe even days, are in need of immediate help. Why you ask? Well, because such dogs are very likely experiencing the Velcro dog syndrome. To know more about this in detail, kindly keep reading on.
Velcro Dog Syndrome: What It Is All About?
This particular syndrome is when a dog just wants to be around their pet owner all the time. No matter where they go, they just want to accompany them. Just like how Velcro sticks, such dogs are like that and hence, the Velcro dog syndrome. Moreover, these dogs are also known as clingy dogs and only want to be near its owner and no one else. There are certain dog breeds that are highly likely to be Velcro dogs because they have been bred like that. Also, dog breeds that are bred to work with their owners can develop such a syndrome too.
Causes Of Velcro Dog Syndrome
There are several causes of this particular syndrome, and we will be looking at a few of them.
#1. They Are Bred To Be Dependent On Their Owner
Working dogs, in particular, are taught to work along with humans. They spend so much time with their human counterparts that it can be extremely difficult to leave their side. And thus, they become heavily dependent. Apart from working dogs, even herding dogs are very likely to get the Velcro dog syndrome.
#2. Lack Of Physical Exercises And Boredom
Most of you know that dogs are restless. They cannot stay in one place for long. Boredom can get to them rather quickly, especially if there’s nothing to do, not even some physical exercises. Thus, all of these can leave your buddy with no other option than follow you around. And over time, this can develop into a habit and eventually become a Velcro dog.
#3. Frequent Changes In Surroundings
Dogs are creatures that seldom enjoy frequent changes. So if you change houses from time to time, it can have an effect on their mental health. They may not get used to the new surroundings, and are very likely going to stick to you all the time, especially younger dogs. And if that happens over a certain length of time, they are pretty much heading into the Velcro dog syndrome category.
#4. Anxiety And Stress
Both anxiety and stress can lead to your dog becoming Velcro dogs. There are certain dog breeds that suffer from separation anxiety, so when you leave them all by themselves and go off to work, their stress levels and anxiety kicks in. So when they see you after about 8 to 10 hours, they are very likely going to stick to you till its bedtime. This can develop into the Velcro dog syndrome as well.
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There are other factors as well, but these are the more likely causes. Now, let us look into how you can help your buddy overcome this syndrome.
Overcoming The Velcro Dog Syndrome
The good news is, you can help your buddy overcome this Velcro dog syndrome. It will also help in preventing your four-legged pal from turning into a Velcro dog. So let’s look at them.
#1. Give Toys To Play With
Dogs tend to get bored easily, especially when you leave them all by themselves when you are off to work. Thus, giving them toys to play with can relatively reduce boredom as well as help in separation anxiety, if any.
#2. Balanced Life
Too much of anything is harmful, and that includes love too. Thus, finding the correct balance of everything is key towards preventing your dog from becoming a Velcro dog. A balanced life, as they say, is all about giving your dog everything within its limits so that they do not become overly dependent on you!
#3. The Art Of Saying ‘No’
Mastering the art of saying ‘no’ is very important, especially if you do not want your buddy to become a Velcro dog. Things like ‘allowing your dog to sleep on your bed’, is something that should be done in moderation. Saying ‘no’ can be difficult at times, but it’s probably the right call.
[Also Read] Common Commands Every Dog Should Be Taught
Final Thoughts
It may be difficult to tell if your dog is a Velcro dog or not, but if you notice your dog following you all the time, then its high time you start implementing the tips we’ve mentioned above. Getting your dog to be a little more independent is important and pet parents should practice that a lot more. Anyway, we hope this blog was helpful to you. You can spread the word to your neighbors and well wishers and educate them about Velcro dogs as well.
