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Home > Dogs > Why Does My Dog Stand on Me? 7 Reasons for This Behavior

Why Does My Dog Stand on Me? 7 Reasons for This Behavior

dog standing on owner in bed

Every dog owner knows that their furry friend exhibits odd behaviors at times. Most of these quirks are harmless and cute. Even though our pets’ weirdness is part of their charm, sometimes we have to ask why they behave in strange ways. One question many dog owners have is, “Why does my dog stand on me?” Perhaps your 80-pound Labrador Retriever thinks they’re a lap dog who needs to stand on you every time you sit down. Does this sound familiar?

Standing on their human is a common behavior among dogs of all sizes. Let’s take a look at the most common reasons dogs like to stand on their humans and discuss when there might be cause for concern.

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The 7 Reasons Your Dog Stands on You

1. They Want Attention

One of the most common reasons our dogs love to stand on us is because they want attention. Dogs are social animals. They also become very attached to their humans. When we spend too much time on our laptops or have been out all day, our dogs miss us.

Sometimes your dog will try to engage by sharing a toy or barking. Other times, they take the direct approach of standing right on top of your lap when you sit down. If you’ve ever experienced this, you know it is often accompanied by a direct gaze into your eyes. Your dog is telling you that you’ve done enough other stuff today and it’s time to pay attention to them.


2. They Love You

Even if you spend plenty of time playing with your dog and showering them with attention, they still might climb on top of you when you sit on the couch. Often, this is their way of demonstrating they care. Dogs like to show their owners that they love them. Getting close can be a way to do that.

Your dog may also want your affection. Standing right on top of you can be their way of asking for pets and ear scratches. Give them a few pets and they may hop down or settle in for a long cuddle session in your lap.

woman training pomeranian
Image By: Gorodenkoff, Shutterstock

3. They’re Sick

We talk to our dogs, but they cannot return the favor. If your dog is sick, the only way it can communicate with you is through body language and behavior. As a pet owner, you know your animal and its normal personality. If your usually playful and energetic dog is suddenly subdued and clingy, this can be a clue that something isn’t right in their world.

There are many signs your dog might be ill, such as limping, shaking, panting, excessive licking, or changing appetite. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, paired with an increased need to be near you, you should call your veterinarian.


4. Something Is Wrong

Although we don’t know exactly how they do it, dogs can sense when something is wrong or different in their humans. They may be able to smell a change in your body or notice some other shift.

When your dog does notice something off, they want to protect you. Standing on you is one way they do this. If you have been under the weather and your dog is more clingy than usual, it might be a good idea to make an appointment with your doctor.


5. Learned Behavior

If your dog has received cuddles and attention from standing on you before, they are likely to do it again. Dogs are smart and remember being rewarded for specific behavior. Since standing on you elicited affection in the past, your dog will do it again when they want the same result.

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Image Credit: Page Light Studios, Shutterstock

6. They’re Feeling Anxious

Even if your dog isn’t ill, they still might be feeling anxious about something. Maybe a thunderstorm is on the way or they are in an unfamiliar situation where they feel uncomfortable. Some dogs are afraid of loud noises or strangers. This fear can create a need to be close to you.

Your closeness and affection can provide comfort for a scared or anxious dog. Tucking their tail between their legs can be one sign that your dog’s hovering is caused by anxiety. If your pet is prone to anxiety in new situations or is easily frightened, you should discuss these behaviors with your vet. They can offer tips on working with your dog to overcome their fears.


7. Asserting Dominance

If your dog is standing on you and also exhibiting hostile behavior such as growling or snapping, you should seek advice from your vet immediately. They can recommend a dog trainer and other actions to curb aggressive behavior before it becomes a problem. Letting this behavior go unchecked can lead to future issues. Since sudden, unusual aggression can also be a sign of an underlying issue such as illness or fear, it is important to seek help from a professional.

weimaraner dog with his owner
Image Credit: Tatjana Baibakova, Shutterstock

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Possible Solutions

Most of the reasons your dog stands on you are not a cause for concern. However, if it does become problematic, there are steps you can take to lessen the behavior.

Maintain a routine and feeding schedule to curb their anxiety. Pay attention to changes in your dog’s behavior and temperament, and talk with your veterinarian if you notice anything unusual.

Finally, make sure you are giving your dog the exercise and attention they need every day. If your dog craves affection, give them plenty of love and cuddles. After all, love is the best gift our pets can share!

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Featured Image Credit: Tatyana Vyc, shutterstock

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