We take a look at the reasons why dogs follow excessively from hunger, boredom, anxiety, and many other possible motivations…

After your dog follows you into the bathroom for the fifth time in a day you may ask yourself, why does my dog follow me everywhere?” 

While it’s actually quite common for our canine friends to follow us around (and can be a sign of love and affection), there are some instances where their clingy behavior can actually be a cause for concern. 

In this article we discuss different reasons your dog may follow you everywhere and when or if you should be concerned.

6 REASONS YOUR DOG MAY FOLLOW YOU EVERYWHERE

Dogs were bred as companionship animals for us humans. We have a mutually beneficial relationship, but our dogs also rely on us to fulfill their basic needs, like food, shelter, and safety.

While any dog can follow you around closely, there are some dogs who may be more prone to be a “velcro dog” than others.

Chihuahuas were bred partly to be a friend and tend to bond very closely with one person

Border Collies were bred to follow orders and perform jobs, and may be more likely to be your little shadow

Puppies brought home before 12 weeks of age may be more likely to follow you closely

But there are a lot of other reasons your dog will follow you around, so let’s get to it!

You are your dog’s whole world, you make them feel secure and happy, and they love your company.

If you have regular feeding times it’s common to see your dog following you around close to these time markers in the day in anticipation of their meal. If they know where you keep the treats, they could be following you around to try and get you to walk over to the treat jar and grab them a yummy snack. 

They may also be following you around because they do get rewarded when they follow you. If following you = a treat, food, belly rub, or play, they may be more prone to following you around closely.

3. THEY WANT TO GO OUTSIDE/GO TO THE BATHROOM

As we mentioned above, a dog may follow you at times when they are hungry. They may also do it when they need to go to the bathroom, around their walk times, etc. 

For example, let’s say you leave the living room, then walk through the hallway that leads you to the door of your bedroom, then you sit in a chair in your bedroom. Your dog follows you from the living room, through the hallway, and stops at the bedroom door only to stand there anxiously watching you and sending you puppy dog eyes.

Unfortunately, the chances are more likely that this is not a decision made solely out of affection for you. They are probably trying to communicate to you, “Hey, you were up and walking. Walk this way, instead!” It’s possible they want to lead you to the door that opens to let them outside.

If your dog is used to a schedule, and that schedule isn't followed (relatively closely), they may just be trying to communicate with you, that "hey, this is usually when I get x, y, or z. What's up?"

Make sure your dog's needs are met, and try to keep to your schedule as much as possible to give them some peace of mind.

Sometimes, dogs are trying to tell you that they are in need of some good exercise. Try to keep a consistent play schedule going can keep your dog stimulated and burning energy throughout the day. This is not only healthy for your dog physically, but can calm them mentally when they are relaxing around the house. 

Pups deserve to be the center of attention sometimes, and they deserve sufficient enrichment every day for their minds and bodies.

For mental enrichment ideas, check this out. 

They may also want to follow you into specific places such as the bathroom or kitchen because they may perceive these places as dangerous. These specific rooms are both typically rich with different scents and sounds. New stimulation like this can either be interpreted by your dog as fun or as danger.

Most likely they are following you to the kitchen for treats or to the bathroom to dig into the trash can. But if your dog is following you only into specific rooms/places it may be because there is some sort of trigger in that specific space.

6. THEY ARE NERVOUS & LOOKING FOR COMFORT/PROTECTION

Certain noises, like thunderstorms, or fireworks can be especially terrifying for some dogs and they may follow you for reassurance. 

Find out the cause of your dog’s nerves and implement training and tools to help. Like desensitization training, white noise, medication (if approved by your vet), and more.

VELCRO DOGS VS SEPARATION ANXIETY: HOW TO TELL THE DIFFERENCE

There is a difference between a dog that enjoys being around you and a dog that is anxious when you’re away. 

Separation anxiety is not a trigger that is making them scared and subsequently follows you around, it's a constant nervousness (anxiety) of being away from you.

If your dog is constantly following you around, shaking, whining, or pacing when you leave, excessively barking or howling, exhibits destructive behaviors when left alone, or has accidents in the house (after being housebroken), your dog may have separation anxiety.

Check out our article Separation Anxiety in Dogs: A Simple Guide for tips on how to help your dog ease their stress.

Dogs and humans have a mutually beneficial relationship. We each provide companionship to the other. Excessive following is just another form of communication and it’s up to you to reciprocate this communication. Your dog could be trying to tell you something. Listen to them and help them feel comfortable without having to follow you around all day. 

Pupford's goal is to help all pups and pup parents by providing valuable tools, treats, and training resources. Explore more resources and start building a better and more enriching environment for your dog.

Why Does My Dog Follow Me Everywhere? | Pupford