Why do dogs lay on your feet?

If you are reading this, there’s a good chance that you’ve ever reached home to a dog who is kind of snuggly at first then after some time it settles to sit on your feet. I am a dog lover and I am always keen on them, and I have witnessed this with many dogs—across the breeds. So, why dogs lay on your feet?

Dogs love to sit on their owner’s feet, but why? Is it your dog’s instincts? One thing I know for sure; it feels warm whenever your dog sits on your feet. 

The main reason why dogs lay on your feet

Dogs are pack animals which means they are social; no wonder we refer to them as man’s best friend. If a dog loves you, there’s no telling how far it’d go to bond with you.

The first reason why dog lay on your feet is that dogs love company and if yours finds a companion in you, it will always cherish some golden moments with you. So, this behavior it somewhat built-in, it’s at the core of a dog’s genetic code to bond with someone it considers a friend, someone who gives it a safe haven.

Of course, it doesn’t have your height so your feet are often the furthest it can get closest to you so it’ll just sit there and feel in touch with you—and that touch means so much to the dog. So much solace in that touch.

Other Reasons Why do dogs lay on your feet

1. Marking his territory

Your dog may sit on your feet to show other dogs that ‘this owner is mine and I’m not ready to share him with you’. This is usually the case if you have many dogs and all of them cherish you and always want a piece of you.

Usually, the alpha male has the upper hand because he’d simply scare off all the other dogs and keep the spot at your feet all to himself. In this case, I’d recommend that you invest in these awesome dog beds and have a bed for every dog around your favorite sitting spot. This way, every dog will feel a fair share of your attention—not just the alpha canine. Ensure you spend some quality time with each dog to reduce this kind of jealousy between them.

2. Anxiety

Nervous dogs may cuddle up to their owners’ feet for safety. Sitting on your feet may be a sign he/she is feeling insecure and needs protection—and with you, he/she feels most secure. Your dog might even follow you around when the anxiety kicks in. Other signs of anxiety in dogs are whimpering, shivering, cowering and a tucked-back tail.

3. Show of love

Dogs can sit on your feet simply because they love your company. They see you as one of their own. You should welcome them with open arms when they show you this kind of affection. It will make them feel loved and appreciated.

4. Warmth

Dogs can cuddle up to your feet for warmth, especially during cold weather. They feel more secure and cozy in between your feet. If you don’t like this behavior and wish to discourage it, I’d recommend that you buy an orthopedic memory foam or a curdler dog bed where it can lie and feel warm when the weather gets cold.

Conclusion

Don’t think about it too much when your dog sits on your feet. In fact, you should let them sit on your feet as often as you can tolerate. It makes them feel part of the family. However, if you notice a strange behavior associated with the dog sleeping on your feet, be sure to visit the vet for a check-up.

Be sure to check out our dog bed reviews, we have a perfect fit for your canine friend. 

Finally….What’s the perfect place for your dog to sleep?

Does your canine friend have a nice and comfortable place to sleep, besides your feet? If he/she doesn’t, here are some great options to consider. We’ve tried most of these products and assure you that they will give you value for your money.

Resources

Why dogs lay on your feet