They’re there. Just as you’re about to use the bathroom, your dog is looking up at you, mesmerized that it’s OK for you to do business in the house, but not them. They’re there. You roll over to check the alarm clock on the nightstand, and there’s a pair of soulful eyes staring at you, ready to start the day. If any of this sounds familiar, you just might be the proud owner of a velcro dog.
Velcro dogs have an exceptional talent for sticking close to their owners, often displaying an intense need for companionship and affection. Parade Pets spoke with Dr. Adam Christman, DVM, MBA, to gain a better understanding of the 15 clingiest dog breeds. Not only is Dr. Christman a veterinarian, but he is also the Chief Veterinary Officer of dvm360 and Fetch Veterinary Conferences. Safe to say, he’s seen quite a few clingy patients through his work!
While velcro dog breeds may require extra attention and care, their unwavering loyalty and affection make them incredibly endearing companions. Understanding their needs and implementing strategies to manage their attachment can help both you and your dog enjoy a balanced, fulfilling relationship.
Related: 7 Best Dog Breeds for Older Adults
Which dog breed is the clingiest?
Vizslas have been long-renowned as the clingiest dog breed, although the number one seat is always up for debate.
Originally bred in Hungary as hunting dogs, Vizslas formed strong bonds with their human handlers, leading to a deep-seated need for companionship. Their social nature, emotional sensitivity and intelligence levels only elevate their clingy behavior. Vizslas thrive on constant human interaction and are always seeking attention from their owners.
What’s a ‘velcro dog’?
“A ‘velcro dog’ refers to a canine companion that sticks to its owner like velcro, demonstrating a strong attachment and a constant desire to be close,” Dr. Christman tells Parade Pets. “These dogs exhibit behaviors that might seem clingy, but stem from their deep love and loyalty towards their human companions.”
Some behaviors exhibited by a velcro dog include their constant presence, mild separation anxiety and an excessive need for attention. Velcro dogs prefer being in physical contact with or within close proximity to their owners, following them from room to room and seeking physical touch.
Dr. Christman adds, “This may be a paw on your thigh, a head on your lap or a wiggle-butt near your back. Consider them your avatar and their way of being physically connected to you.”
Tips for managing velcro dogs
Of course, you love your dog and want to spend quality time with them. But, the clinginess may frustrate you after some time. Dr. Christman provides five valuable tips for managing velcro dogs:
- Set Boundaries: Establish consistent routines for alone time to help them adjust gradually. Start with short periods and gradually increase time apart.
- Positive Reinforcement: Reward calm behavior when they are separated from you. Use high-value treats or toys to create positive associations with alone time.
- Enrichment Activities: Provide engaging toys or puzzles to keep them occupied and mentally stimulated while you’re away. DIY enrichment toys make great toys for velcro dogs!
- Training and Socialization: Training sessions and social interactions can build their confidence, reducing dependency on constant human presence.
- Seek Professional Help: In severe cases of separation anxiety or clinginess, consulting a veterinarian or professional dog trainer can provide tailored strategies and support.
Related: 26 Calm Dog Breeds
15 velcro dog breeds
Vizslas
Often referred to as the number one clingiest dog breed, Vizslas are both affectionate and crave companionship. They tend to shadow their owners due to their strong desire for closeness.
“Social distancing and personal space are non-existent when you are the proud pet parent to this beautiful breed,” Dr. Christman says. “Be sure to keep their brains engaged with puzzle toys and enrichment toys. Boredom and idle time can do them dirty.”
Australian Shepherd
Known for their intelligence and herding instincts, Australian Shepherds can be clingy due to their strong bond with their owners. Many herding dog breeds are clingy because they were literally bred to work side-by-side with humans—it’s in their genes!
To manage their clinginess, provide mental stimulation through obedience training and agility exercises, ensuring they get plenty of physical exercise to meet their energetic needs.
Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds are true lovers. They are affectionate and thrive on human companionship, making them prone to clinginess—and separation anxiety.
“When left alone, these dogs might display signs of distress, such as excessive barking, destructive behavior or restlessness,” Dr. Christman warns.
To manage this, it’s important to establish a consistent routine, offer gentle socialization to build their confidence and create a cozy, secure space where they feel safe when you’re not around. If the separation anxiety becomes severe, contact your veterinarian.
German Shepherd
Everybody knows how fiercely loyal German Shepherds are, but that loyalty can also feel overly clingy at times.
“Known for their unparalleled loyalty, German Shepherds often form strong bonds with their families, seeking constant reassurance and interaction. If you’re exercising and running, you better believe that they are exercising and running right next to you!” Dr. Christman says.
Maltese
According to Wag!, the Maltese was one of the earliest dog breeds to be bred as a lap dog, so it’s no wonder these adorable pups can weigh heavy on the clingy side. These dogs are naturally affectionate and form strong attachments to their owners, ready for you to take them anywhere and everywhere.
Owners can manage their clinginess by providing regular, short walks, interactive playtime and proper socialization to prevent separation anxiety. Establish clear boundaries to help them feel secure in your absence.
Border Collie
Border Collies are another dog breed that was originally bred for herding livestock, landing them their spot on the list of clingiest dog breeds. With their breeding intent, they are highly intelligent and thrive on mental stimulation—which can lead to clinginess if their needs aren’t met.
So, put them to work! Engage them in challenging activities, whether it’s mentally or physically stimulating. Take them on plenty of walks and play with them to release excess energy.
French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are adorable, charming and social. However, their inherent desire for close human contact can make them prone to clinginess and excessive attention-seeking behaviors. Still, they’re known to be adaptable and enjoy being a part of family activities, making them ideal indoor pets.
Though you may enjoy excessive attention-seeking at times, establishing a healthy balance with independence and ensuring they receive proper care and attention will contribute to a more harmonious and loving relationship with them.
Labrador Retriever
For years, the Labrador Retriever has taken the cake as the most popular dog breed in America due to their friendly, outgoing nature. Labs are loyal and eager to please, but their social nature puts them in the clingy dog breed category.
Consistent physical activity is crucial for this dog breed. Engage them in activities such as fetch, jogging or swimming. They love taking a dip in the water, and it’s fun to watch them do the doggy paddle!
Pomeranian
Pomeranians were originally bred to be companion dogs, so don’t be surprised if this dog breed loathes being away from you for even short periods. They make excellent companions for those who can provide them with the attention, care and proper training they need.
Every Pomeranian and every dog is unique in their respective temperaments. But, one thing is certain: most Pomeranians want to cuddle, play with you and receive pets—24/7. At times, they may act like they never get enough love from you.
Pugs
Pugs would much rather hang out with their owners than any fellow furry friends. With how adorable they are, you may not mind their constant need for cuddles!
“Despite their small size, Pugs can be surprisingly clingy, seeking attention and companionship, often preferring to be near their owners at all times. Their enlarged eyes allow them to keep a close eye on you at all times!” Dr. Christman says.
Golden Retriever
“Golden Retrievers are friendly and loyal dogs that form strong emotional connections, often displaying velcro tendencies due to their desire for affection and companionship.”
With a squeaky toy in their mouth and you firmly pressed along their side – does it honestly get any better than that? They are both loyal and gentle, which is why they’re one of the most popular dog breeds along with one of the clingiest.
Related: 25 Best Dog Breeds for Cats
Pit Bull
Pit Bulls have long received a bad reputation, but they are known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners. Being bred as working dogs, they won’t want to be away from their owners for very long.
Positive reinforcement training techniques are highly effective in shaping their behavior, reinforcing positive traits while discouraging undesirable ones.
Dachshund
Famously known for their elongated bodies and spirited personalities, these bouncers often exhibit velcro-like behavior due to their strong attachment to their owners. They certainly do not like being alone and are strong advocates for quality, family time.
“Their long bodies allow them to further latch onto your legs, back, chest and glutes. There is not enough adhesive remover to separate the love a Dachshund has between you and the blanket you share with them!” Dr. Christman jokes.
Shetland Sheepdog
Though Shetland Sheepdogs may be reserved and shy with strangers, they are protective of their families. This clingy dog breed takes “herding dog” to the next level, originally bred in the Shetland Islands of Scotland.
Shetland Sheepdogs are prone to separation anxiety, as they love being around their families. You may find that they’re constantly following you around. Though it’s important to set boundaries, Dr. Christman urges owners to consider it a gift when they feel frustrated with their pups.
“You became the chosen one!” he exclaims.
Chihuahua
Little body, huge personality—that’s a Chihuahua for you! They are also considered one of the clingiest dog breeds, with their innate temperament and strong attachment to their owners.
Though outsiders may be annoyed by their barking, Chihuahuas form deep bonds with their human parents, seeking constant reassurance and affection. They often display velcro behaviors, such as following their owners around the house and insisting on lap time.
Source
- Dr. Adam Christman, DVM – Connect via dvm360 website, TikTok, Instagram and his website.
