Why Your Dog Often Sits On Your Feet

It's movie night at home. You've settled into your favorite comfy chair. Out of nowhere, your dog appears, sits on your feet, and leans on your legs. Have you ever wondered why your dog uses your feet as a couch, even when there are doggie cushions on the floor?

There are different reasons why dogs sit on their parent's feet, but often, they want to show or receive affection, are anxious, or guard their parents.

"Often when dogs sit on our feet, it's because they want to be close to us," says Dr. Mary Burch, Ph.D., a certified applied animal behaviorist. "It's one way a dog shows affection. Think of your dog sitting on your feet as the canine version of a hug or cuddle."

Dogs may rest on their parents to stay warm during cold weather. It is an instinctual behavior they learned as puppies. If you've watched puppies sleeping, you may have noticed that they often huddle together. The act keeps them warm and makes them feel safe.

When dogs are anxious or stressed, being close to their parents gives them added security. If your dog rarely rests on your feet but suddenly does so one day, try to figure out what might be scaring them. Signs of fear to watch out for include pulled-back ears, drooling, panting, and shaking.