I own a rottweiler. She is the sweetest, most submissive pet I have ever had. Recently she has started sitting on me while I am lying on my sofa or bed and it’s driving me crazy!
Is there some sort of dog psychology behind this?
Maybe she wants to show dominance over me?
Or maybe she just wants attention? So far I haven’t figured out why…
I need help! why does my rottweiler lay on me?
This is the common rottweiler sitting behavior most people face, today I will share why Rottweilers & other dogs sit on you.
Well, my Rottweiler has always loved sitting on me. Even as a little puppy she would sit on my lap and put her paw around me to hold me close. I think there is something about humans that dogs just love. For them, it’s like a constant hug.
Contents
- 1 Top Reasons why do rottweilers sit on you
- 2 Seeking Attention
- 3 They Want To Be The Alpha Dog
- 4 Marking Their Territory
- 5 Showing Dominance
- 6 Seeking Comfort
- 7 Health Issues
- 8 Lack of Exercise
- 9 Lack of Socialization
- 10 Separation Anxiety
- 11 An Invitation To Come Play With Them
- 12 Tip to stop Your Rottweiler from Sitting on you
- 13 FAQs
- 14 Conclusion
Top Reasons why do rottweilers sit on you
Rottweilers are a popular breed of dog known for their loyalty and protective instincts. They are also known for their tendency to sit on their owners, which can be confusing and even uncomfortable for some pet parents. In this article, we will explore why your Rottweiler may be sitting on you and what you can do to address this question why does my dog sit on me?
Here is a few most common reason why Your Rottweiler sits on you.
Seeking Attention
Rottweilers are affectionate dogs that thrive on attention from their owners. They may sit on you as a way to get closer and show affection.
If your giant Rottweiler is sitting on you, it may be a sign that they want you to pay attention to them.
To address this behavior, try spending more time playing with your dog or giving them attention when they are calm and not sitting on you.
They Want To Be The Alpha Dog
Rottweilers have a pack mentality, so they want to be the alpha dog. They expect that we will always love and protect them. If we don’t, they might do something like sit on us to show dominance over us or to get some attention from us.
We can try and teach our dogs that sitting on people is not ok by telling them “off” and giving them a treat when they get off of us, or we can try and make sure this behavior doesn’t bother us too much if it doesn’t seem like it’s for dominance.
Letting them know that it is not ok with you will help them understand that this behavior makes you unhappy, and then they will hopefully stop.
Marking Their Territory
Dogs are territorial animals and may sit on their owners to mark their territory.
This behavior is more common in male Rottweilers that have not been neutered. If your Rottweiler is sitting on you and showing signs of marking, such as lifting their leg, it may be time to consider neutering your dog.
Neutering can reduce the risk of aggressive behavior and help to prevent territorial marking.
Showing Dominance
Rottweilers are dominant dogs that may sit on their owners as a way to assert their dominance. This behavior is more common in dogs that have not been properly trained or socialized.
To address this behavior, it is important to establish yourself as the alpha and set boundaries with your dog.
You may also want to consider enrolling your dog in obedience training to help them learn basic commands and socialization skills.
Seeking Comfort
Finally, Rottweilers may sit on their owners as a way to seek comfort and security.
This behavior is more common in dogs that have been separated from their litter or are experiencing anxiety. To address this behavior, try providing your dog with a comfortable and secure space, such as a crate or bed.
You may also want to consider using calming aids, such as pheromone sprays or supplements, to help your dog relax.
Health Issues
Another possible reason why your Rottweiler may be sitting on you is due to health issues.
Dogs can experience joint pain or discomfort, which may make it difficult for them to stand or walk for extended periods.
If your Rottweiler is sitting on you more frequently than usual or seems to be struggling with mobility, it is important to consult with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health concerns.
Lack of Exercise
Rottweilers are an active breed that requires daily exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. Without enough exercise, they may become restless and seek attention by sitting on their own.
If your Rottweiler is sitting on you more often than usual, it may be a sign that they need more physical activity. Try taking your dog for a walk or engaging in other types of exercise, such as playing fetch, to help them burn off excess energy.
Lack of Socialization
Socialization is an important part of raising a happy and well-adjusted Rottweiler. Without proper socialization, dogs may become anxious or aggressive in unfamiliar situations, which may lead to behaviors such as sitting on their owners.
To address this behavior, it is important to expose your Rottweiler to different people, animals, and environments from a young age. Consider enrolling your dog in puppy classes or working with a professional trainer to help them develop socialization skills.
Separation Anxiety
Rottweilers are a breed that can develop separation anxiety, which is a condition characterized by excessive distress when left alone.
If your Rottweiler sits on you more frequently when you are getting ready to leave or when you return home, it may be a sign of separation anxiety.
To address this behavior, try gradually increasing the amount of time your dog spends alone, providing them with interactive toys or treats to keep them occupied, and seeking guidance from a veterinarian or professional dog trainer.
An Invitation To Come Play With Them
Sometimes Rottweiler will also sit on people as an invitation to come to play with them or hang out together. They are showing how affectionate they are, and want the person’s company.
Often, these types of dogs will be happy if their owner does walk away for a few minutes to take care of something outside, then comes back and continues playing with the dog.
Regardless of why your pup is sitting on you, make sure it is something that doesn’t bother you too much! Letting them know that it is not ok with you will help them understand that this behavior makes you unhappy, and then they will hopefully stop.
Tip to stop Your Rottweiler from Sitting on you
If your Rottweiler is sitting on you and you would like to discourage this behavior, there are a few things you can try:
Provide an alternative: If your Rottweiler likes to sit on you because they are seeking attention or affection, provide an alternative, such as a comfortable dog bed or cushion next to you where they can rest.
Use positive reinforcement: When your Rottweiler chooses to sit somewhere other than on top of you, praise and reward them with treats or affection. This will help reinforce the desired behavior.
Teach basic obedience commands: Teaching your Rottweiler basic obedience commands such as “sit” and “stay” can help establish you as the leader and may reduce unwanted behaviors.
Redirect attention: If your Rottweiler gets too excited and jumps on you to sit, redirect their attention by offering them a toy or engaging in playtime.
Be consistent: Consistency is key when it comes to training your dog. Make sure everyone in your household understands the rules regarding allowing your Rottweiler to sit on you, and enforce those rules consistently.
FAQs
Is it normal for Rottweilers to sit on their owners?
Yes, it is a natural behavior for Rottweilers to sit on their owners.
Should I allow my Rottweiler to sit on me?
It depends on your personal preferences and the context of the behavior. If it is becoming problematic or aggressive, it is important to address it.
Can Rottweilers be trained not to sit on their owners?
Yes, Rottweilers can be trained through obedience training and consistent enforcement of rules.
Conclusion
In summary, there are many reasons why your Rottweiler may be sitting on you, and identifying the underlying cause is important in addressing this behavior. Whether your dog is seeking attention, marking their territory, or experiencing anxiety, there are steps you can take to help them feel more comfortable and secure.
By providing your Rottweiler with the proper training, exercise, and socialization, you can help them develop into a happy and well-adjusted member of your family.
