You settle down in front of the television and your dog immediately settles into her favorite spot at your feet. This is a common scene in millions of households. But have you ever wondered why dogs lay down at their owner’s feet? Here’s why.
It is normal and very common for dogs to settle down on their owners’ feet. This is a dog’s way of showing trust, affection, devotion, and loyalty. Dogs, like humans, use touch to communicate with loved ones. By laying his head on your feet, your dog is telling you he is content and happy. This behavior is similar to your dog putting his paw on you.
The root of this behavior can be traced back to when dogs lived in the wild as pack animals. They slept close to one another for protection and warmth. Domestic pets perceive their owners as the leaders of the pack. That’s why your pet lays at your feet. In some cases, it is to show trust or even submission.
Some dogs prefer to lay on the floor with their head on your feet instead of on the couch. There can be various reasons for this. For example, your dog may find your marble floor cooler to lay on compared to the couch in warm weather.
Some dogs who live in households with multiple pets will lay on the owner’s feet to mark their territory and demonstrate dominance over the other animals. Sometimes a dog will lay on your feet simply out of habit.
Other ways dogs show contentment is by laying their paws or body on your feet and sighing softly.
Laying on your feet is not bad behavior per se. If it doesn’t bother you, let your dog go ahead and settle down at your feet. It’s a great way to bond with your pooch. And it leaves your couch clean.
While most people are okay with it, sometimes when a dog lays on your feet, it can become annoying. In such a scenario, some gentle redirection is all that is needed. Tell your dog “No” in a firm voice and show him where it is okay to lay down.
If you find your dog is always underfoot to the point that it is bothersome, try to think if something else might be going on. Does your dog have separation anxiety? Is he laying on your feet for reassurance and to feel close to you? If this is the case, your vet can guide you on how to help your dog cope when you are away from home. It may also be useful to keep your dog busy while you’re gone so that he doesn’t feel anxious.
Couples or members of a household sometimes feel like the family dog favors one person over others. For instance, your dog may always choose to lay on your feet rather than your partner’s.
In most instances, this is simply because one person is at home more. Dogs bond with the human who feeds them, plays with them, and spends the maximum amount of time with them. If that person is you, it’s natural for your dog to lay on your feet when you settle down to relax.
Sometimes, however, the reverse happens. Meaning, a dog bonds more with the family member who is away from home the most. And your pooch lays down at the feet of a mostly absent partner. This can often be explained by your own behaviors. If you are away from the home a lot and reward your dog with treats when he cuddles with you or lays down on your feet, this reinforces the behavior.
Not only do dogs like to lay on your feet when you’re relaxing at home, they will often sleep at your feet in bed. This is because sleeping at your feet gives them a chance to keep part of their body pressed against yours for comfort and safety. At the same time, it gives your dog a little more room to get comfortable. So, if your dog is sleeping at your feet in bed, she’s doing it to stick close to you and feel secure while also giving herself room to stretch out a little bit.
17 December, 2022