Dog owners take it for granted that they are their pooch’s favorite person. But this isn’t always the case. Sometimes it may be another member of the family or even a dogwalker. Dogs connect with the person that they feel the strongest relationship with. However, there are ways to ensure that it’s you. Let’s look at how dogs choose their favorite person and ways to improve your relationship with your canine pal.
Dogs Favor Their Primary Caregivers
So: do dogs have a favorite person? We’re not trying to make anybody jealous, but the reality is that they often do. Unsurprisingly, it’s usually who they perceive to be their primary caregiver. This is the person who walks them, feeds them, and gives them plenty of affection. Most of the time, this is the owner because they take responsibility for their pet’s happiness. However, it’s not always the case, and sometimes, our dogs feel more affection for another human.
Maybe the owner is often away from home and hires a dog walker. It’s natural for the pooch to bond with the person who takes them out and shows them affection. Doggie daycare may be a better option if you’re worried about this. Sometimes being apart is unavoidable. That’s why it’s so important to spend quality time with your fur baby if you want to maintain your bond.
Can a Dog’s Favorite Person Change?
A dog’s favorite person can change depending on the circumstances in their life. Rescue dogs are a good example because they often have previous owners. Dogs show extraordinary loyalty to their owners, even if they experience abuse. It can take time for them to forge a new relationship with another person. If you adopt a dog from a shelter, it’s crucial to note this. Be patient with your new pooch pal. Show them love, learn about the 3-3-3 rule, and they’ll gradually become comfortable with you.
Maybe the owner has children or a new partner. They can forge a strong relationship with the dog, too. Consider getting a family-friendly pooch if you’re in this situation. A dog’s bond can evolve depending on their interactions with different people. The personalities of the dog and the human also have a strong impact. If the primary owner’s manner changes, it may affect their connection with their dog.
Dogs Often Sleep With Their Favorite People
One sign that you’re your dog’s favorite person is that they may want to sleep near you. Dogs descended from wolves. They seek comfort and solace from being in a pack. It provides them with a sense of security because they feel safe being near their primary caregiver. Owners often buy special beds for their dogs, but their pets may prefer to sleep on the floor near them instead.
Some dogs will jump onto the sofa beside you and fall asleep against their owner. Others will sleep beside their favorite person’s bed or even next to them on it. This is very common if there is thunder and lightning or heavy rain outside.
It’s a privilege for your dog to want to stay close to you. Avoid leaving them alone in the garden at night because they will miss you. If your dog doesn’t normally sleep with you, however, don’t worry. Not all dogs want to sleep near their owners. The room may be too hot, or they just might want their own space. This is especially true with cat-like dog breeds, like Chow Chows.
How Can I Become My Dog’s Favorite Person?
Connection is the keyword when it comes to being your dog’s favorite person. Be the one to feed them breakfast and dinner. Give them treats when it’s appropriate and spend time with them. Pet them when they sit beside you and show them attention. Take them for walks every day, even if you hire a professional walker. Dogs give back so much love for very little effort. It should feel rewarding to look after them, not a burden. Unfortunately, there are no shortcuts when it comes to building a strong bond.
Early socialization will help. Dogs see the world in a different way from humans. If you spend time with your dog when it’s still a puppy, it will become more attached with time. However, this may affect its relationships later in life. For example, if a puppy spends most of its time with women, it will bond more naturally with females later. Similarly, if a man or a woman mistreats it, it may be more wary of that gender as it grows older.
Dogs Need Consistency
Remember: consistency is very important. Dogs thrive from security and regularity in their lives. If one person is constantly in and out of it, they will feel insecure. They may even suffer from separation anxiety. Positive associations will help, but all the treats in the world can’t replace being there for your pooch. Quality time is the best gift that you can give; they love being with their favorite people.
Body language is also important. Be kind and patient to your dog even if they’re under your feet when you’re cooking. They’re only there because they associate happiness with your presence.
Dogs are complicated animals, but it’s simple to understand that they just want love. Ensure that they’re a stable part of your daily routine, and it will bring joy to both of your lives. Also, don’t be jealous if they show affection to somebody else who visits. If you’re there for them, you will always be their number one!
