Why Does My Dog... Lean on Me? - Vetstreet

 

By Dr. Patty Khuly | November 8, 2011

Is your dog a leaner? It’s a common enough issue. Most serial dog owners are likely to have lived with one at some point.

But it’s not just leaning. It’s also standing on your feet, hugging your legs during a walk, and sleeping with the maximum amount of shared surface area in contact.

Some authorities would have you believe your dog is trying to dominate you with her weight. Others might say you’re being manipulated by a poorly socialized, misbehaving suck-up who knows how to push your buttons. But the truth is something else.

In most cases this is affection-seeking behavior, plain and simple. Dogs love to cuddle. And if the person you want to cuddle with is always sitting and standing, then cuddling takes the form of leaning on her or sitting on her shoes as she taps away at the keyboard.

Add that to the fact that dogs –– pack animals that they are –– are fond of close contact as a safety measure, and you’ve got a great rationale for your dog’s lean-on-a-leg approach to life.

Article Courtesy of  Dr. Patty Khuly and Vetstreet

ASPCA | Tips for a Pet-Safe Easter!

 

With Easter right around the corner, our experts want to remind pet parents of a few holiday dangers.

• Beware of Easter lilies. These toxic plants can be fatal if ingested by our furry friends.
• Keep candy bunnies in check—chocolate goodies are toxic to cats, dogs and ferrets. And any treats containing xylitol an artificial sweetener used in many candies, chewing gum and baked goods—may be toxic too!
• Decorations can be dangerous, especially Easter tinsel. Kitties love to nibble colorful plastic grass, which can lead to an obstructed digestive tract, severe vomiting and dehydration.
• Baby chicks and rabbits are not Easter gifts. While these festive babies are adorable, resist the urge to buy; they grow up fast and often require specialized care! Thousands of ex-Easter bunnies and chicks are abandoned each year when their novelty wears off.

For more pet safety tips, please visit our Pet Care section.

ASPCA | Tips for a Pet-Safe Easter!