Does your dog love sitting on your lap? Whether they weigh 100 pounds or barely 10, no dog can get enough lap sitting. Some dogs crave cuddling and the extra attention they get when they crawl into your lap. While this is fun when your dog is small, what about a big old boy who thinks laying on you is the best thing in the world?
If your dog insists on sitting on your lap, try to find out why he is doing it. Most reasons are not a big deal, but sometimes, you need to make him get down to communicate leadership. And sometimes, he wants to love you.
Maybe It’s Cuddle Time
Like people, your dog wants to cuddle with you, no matter how big or small. However, his interaction is closer and more loving if he is on your lap. If your dog is too big to sit on your lap, teach him to “cuddle” at floor level by giving him all the attention he needs while sitting beside your chair or on the floor together.
Your Dog May Be Trying To Comfort You
Dogs are amazing at reading the feelings of the humans around them. If you are crying or upset, your dog may try to comfort you by sitting on your lap. Since being close to you makes him feel better, he may assume it will make you feel better.
Could Your Dog Be Dominant?
If your dog is sitting on your lap to show you that he is the dominant one in the house, you need to remove him immediately! Every dog pack has an alpha dog, and you are the alpha of his pack. Sometimes, they may just be trying to show dominance over other dogs in the house, but if you are being dominated, you must immediately nip it in the bud. When he wants affection, turn your back to him to show him you are the boss. Consider playing games with your dog to show him you are the leader.
Consider Anxiety or Insecurity
You are the security in your dog’s life. Because of this, it is only natural that he will run to you when something upsets or scares him. He wants to feel secure and safe from the situation until he learns to handle it independently. Just because your dog is bigger than you does not mean he does not get scared at times and wants to feel safe with you by his side.
You can cuddle and love your dog most comfortably for most of these reasons. If you do not mind him on your lap, cuddle for a few minutes and get him down. However, if you determine your dog is trying to dominate you when he climbs onto your lap, push him off and remind him that you are the leader, not him.