[Nerodia]

We are the proud owners of a "Velcro dog" as well. I'm not sure why dogs do this; part of it is the breed--we have Aussie shepherds, which are known for being smart, sensitive dogs. It might be a busybody thing; it might be an insecurity thing; but as far as something being actually "wrong", I don't think so. I would classify it more as a personality trait. It's actually nice in a way, because we can take her for walks off-leash, and we don't have to worry about her taking off (like our other dog does).

So if it's not too annoying for you, I wouldn't worry too much about it. If you do find this behavior annoying, however (and sometimes I admit, I DO find it annoying), what you can do is:

1) Totally ignore the dog when they are engaging in this behavior. Avoid eye contact and hold your hands up by your chest if needed.
2) Use affection sparingly, only when you ask them to do something and they do it. Remember, mother dogs don't use affection very often with their pups.
3) If your dog gets up in your face and wants to lick you (which our dog does, especially after she's visited the cat box--blech!) you can tell him or her "Off!" in a stern tone of voice. With a sensitive dog, this is usually all it takes.

Remember, there is nothing wrong with setting boundaries. Mama dogs do it all the time.

I'm curious--is this dog new to you?

[fairydogmother]

Originally Posted by Lara's mom

I firmly believe that dogs are capable of love. Theirs is a pure love with no hidden agenda.

I agree! I think they are capable of true unconditional love that we humans cannot fathom. Have you ever heard the phrase, "You see the face of God in a child"? I think the same is true for dogs. No one would doubt that after looking into the eyes of a Great Pyrenees.

[Lunareclipse]

Originally Posted by fairydogmother

I agree! I think they are capable of true unconditional love that we humans cannot fathom. Have you ever heard the phrase, "You see the face of God in a child"? I think the same is true for dogs. No one would doubt that after looking into the eyes of a Great Pyrenees.

I agree. Although Porter isn't a velcro dog. Velcro is easier to get off.