There’s no better feeling than being greeted by your dog after a long day at work. If you’re like a lot of other people, you’ll make a beeline to the couch — and if your dog is like a lot of other dogs, they’ll follow you there.
Many dogs prefer to lie or sleep on their owners’ legs, and while this is a small thing, it begs the question: “Why does my dog sleep on my legs?” Read on to find out why your dog sleeps on your legs and whether it's a good thing to let it happen.
Why Does Your Dog Sleep on Your Legs?
Your dog sleeping on your legs is quite a common behavior. In many cases, it is a simple sign of affection or a feeling of security. For other dogs, snuggling close could be a sign of a deeper issue.
Let's break down the common causes why your dog likes sleeping on your legs.
Your Dog Sees You as Part of the Pack
Dogs were once pack animals, and certain behaviors can still be found in their genetics. One behavior in particular is seeking out and being close to the leader, which would be you.
Being close to you not only shows respect, but it also indicates that they feel secure and comfortable in your presence.
You're Their Favorite Source of Warmth
When looking for a place to rest, dogs will naturally seek out the warmest and secure location — which in some cases is you. Humans produce a lot of body heat, making your legs or feet the perfect spot to get cozy.
If your dog has an issue staying warm, try placing your dog under warm sheets or wrapping them in a comfortable blanket. It’ll show them that you are not the only source of heat in the house.
It Makes Them Feel Safe and Secure
Your pup could be sleeping on your legs to simply feel more secure.
Dogs are social animals, consistently needing and seeking some form of companionship. Resting on you provides them with a physical connection that makes them feel safe.
They’re Struggling With Separation Anxiety
In some instances, the habit of sleeping on your legs comes from separation anxiety.
This condition will heighten the dog’s emotional attachment to their owners, typically leading to behaviors like excessive closeness whenever its owner is present.
Additional Reason Why Your Dog Sleeps on Your Legs
Yes, there’s another reason why your dog is sleeping on your legs that’s a little different from the reasons above.
Your Dog Might Be Marking You as “Theirs”
While some sleeping on or between your legs can be a cute notion from your furry friend, they could see it as showing others that you belong to them. Dogs are inherently territorial, and it could be a way to show other dogs and people to back off.
Should You Let Your Dog Sleep on Your Feet?
Letting your dog sleep on your legs comes down to personal preference. However, there are various benefits and downsides to consider before you let your pup use you as their bed.
Pros
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Strengthens your bond by making your dog feel safe and secure
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Provides additional warmth for both of you during colder times of the year
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Makes your dog feel more comfortable and less anxious with your constant presence
Cons
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Can begin making your dog feel more protective and possessive of you
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Constant clinginess may heighten separation anxiety when you are not around
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Your furry friend could be a fuzzy obstacle when you attempt to get up
Is It Bad for My Dog to Sleep Between My Legs?
Similar to the circumstances with the feet, allowing your dog to sleep between your dogs comes down to your preference as an owner and various scenarios. Factors to consider include:
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Size/weight of the Dog: Smaller breeds are easier to accommodate, but larger breeds, like retrievers, bring a lot more weight that can quickly turn any nap uncomfortable.
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Heat in Summer: Summer heat can be brutal, but with a dog between your legs, the heat can rise quickly, making getting a good rest almost impossible.
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Restricted Movements: If you sleep next to another person in bed, you both have less room to move around. Add a dog in the middle, and movements become almost entirely restricted in order not to wake them up.
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Accidental Motions: Some owners deal with conditions like restless leg syndrome, which forces their bodies to move continuously. With a dog nuzzling between your legs, these sudden motions could not only wake them up but also potentially harm them.
Final Thoughts Before Naptime
It’s not a bad thing to let your dog rest their head on you once in a while. However, there may be something else going on if it becomes constant. If it reaches this point, encourage them to sleep in their own bed or start using blankets or covers to demonstrate that you are not the only source of heat.
If your dog won’t settle for anything but you, it may be time to get in touch with a certified veterinarian or dog behavioral therapist for a personalized consultation.
When your dog shows their love for you, you can show your love back with the Absorber. Whether it's during a bath or right after a quick walk in the rain, this super absorbent towel attracts moisture like a magnet, quickly drying your dog’s coat in no time at all.
Pick up the Absorber from Dog Lover’s Towel and give your dog a comfortable, warm way to stay dry.
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