If you’re a dog owner, you know that they love to lay their head on your feet. It’s seemingly the most comfortable place in the world for them.
But have you ever wondered why they do this?
What exactly is so appealing about our feet?
Today we’re going to take a look at some of the reasons dogs like to lay on our feet and what it means for their relationship with us.
Dogs often lay on their owners’ feet as a way to show love and affection. They may also do it because they are comfortable and feel safe in that spot and that your dog feels protected when he is close to you.
Why do dogs lie on their owner’s feet?
There are a few reasons why your dog may enjoy laying on your feet.
For one, your feet are likely to be some of the warmest parts of your body, so lying on them can be a way for your dog to stay warm.
Additionally, your feet may smell like you, which can be comforting to your dog.
Finally, being close to your feet may help your dog feel more connected to you and better able to protect you.
Whatever the reason, if your dog enjoys spending time on your feet, there’s no need to worry.
It is instinctive behaviour
If you think about dogs in a wild, natural habit, they move together as a pack, hunt together and rest together.
When they rest they stick close to each other for warmth and protection, often determined by the pack leader.
In the case of your home your dog has determined that you are the pack leader and will sit or lie down close to you, which often means lying on your feet.
It’s a way to show love and affection
Dogs often show their love and affection for us in different ways, such as wagging their tail, licking our face or giving us a paw.
Laying on our feet is another way that they express these emotions.
It may not be the most practical way of showing their affection, but it definitely works for them.
They’re trying to stay warm
As we mentioned before, our feet are usually quite warm due to the blood flowing through them.
This makes them the perfect spot for your dog to snuggle up to when they’re feeling cold.
Additionally, if you’re wearing socks they may also enjoy the added warmth and comfort that they provide.
They want to be close to you
Dogs are very social creatures and love being around their family members.
Laying on your feet is a way for them to be close to you and feel connected to you.
It helps them to feel safe and secure
Dogs are very protective of their pack and will often do whatever they can to keep them safe.
Laying on your feet gives them a sense of security and helps them to feel like they are doing their part in keeping you safe.
For some dogs lying on your feet can be territorial
While this isn’t the case for all dogs, some may see lying on your feet as a way to mark their territory.
This is more likely to be the case if your dog is possessive or territorial in other areas of the house such as their food or toys.
Your dog could be being protective too
Dogs are natural guardians and will often try to protect their family from anything they perceive as a threat.
Laying on your feet may be your dog’s way of trying to protect you from harm.
So, if you ever find your dog lying on your feet, don’t be too quick to move them. They could just be trying to keep you safe.
It could be a sign of anxiety in your dog
While this isn’t always the case, some dogs may lay on their owner’s feet as a way to cope with anxiety or stress.
This can be common with dogs that don’t like to be left alone and simply want to be with you.
The act of lying on your feet could be your dog’s way of letting you know that he is there and, maybe, a way, in his mind, of ensuring that if you get up he will know about it.
Is there anything wrong with letting my dog lie on my feet?
No, there is nothing wrong with letting your dog lie on your feet.
In fact, many people find it quite endearing and enjoy the companionship.
However, if you’re not a fan of having a dog on your feet, or if your dog shows signs of aggression when you move, then there are a few things you can do to stop it from happening.
The easiest way is to simply move your feet away when your dog tries to lay on them.
You may need to do this a few times before they get the message but eventually they will learn that they are not allowed on your feet.
Another option is to provide them with an alternate spot that they can lie on such as a bed or mat.
If you do this then make sure to praised them when they use it so that they know they are doing the right thing.
Finally, if your dog is anxious or stressed then you may need to speak to a veterinarian or animal behaviorist about ways to help them cope with their anxiety.
This is usually only necessary in severe cases but can be very effective in helping your dog feel more relaxed and comfortable.
Final Words
There are many reasons why your dog may lie on your feet and, in most cases, there is nothing to worry about.
However, if you’re not a fan of it then there are a few things you can do to stop it from happening.
Overall, though, just enjoy the companionship and love that your dog is showing you. They’re just trying to let you know that they care.
