Why Does My Dog Sit on My Feet?

The bond between a dog and its human is nearly unbreakable. From constant cuddles and love, a dog loves spending as much time as possible with its favorite person.

However, if you notice that your dog occasionally likes to sit on your feet, you may be wondering why. Is it a sign of something or do they just like it there?

Here’s what we know:

What Do The Studies Say?

A study done by a team of Swedish researchers suggests that dogs enjoy cuddling up to humans because of their sensitivity to oxytocin.

Oxytocin, also known as the “love hormone,” is a hormone produced by the brain that makes you feel affection and love for someone or something. It plays a large role in maternal attachment as well as empathy and generosity.

More Answers

Pack Mentality

Dogs are social creatures who live in packs in the wild. Even though your dog has never lived in the wild, that DNA might still be in there and might be influencing some of their actions. Sitting on your feet might be their way of feeling safe.

Guarding

Those instincts might also be at play through guarding. Your dog loves you and wants to protect you, so he may sit on your feet to help protect you from anything they see as a threat.

Territoriality

Your dog may see you as something belonging to them and therefore want to claim you. If your dog lays on your feet in public areas, they may be trying to send a message to other dogs around that you belong to them.

Comfort

Your dog may be picking up on cues that you are feeling sick or sad and is trying to help cheer you up. It could also be the other way around, in which case your dog is laying on your feet as a way to make themselves feel more safe and secure.

If your dog likes to sit on your feet, they may have many different reasons for it, and as long as it’s not too uncomfortable for you, theirs no harm! And if you are looking for more information about the subject, check out this article!