Do rescue dogs get attached to one person?
Palma Conroy
2025-07-05 14:29:32
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: 11
Sometimes the attachment is to all members of the family, but some dogs become over attached to just one person and can become extremely anxious and distressed when that person is absent, even if there is another person in the house, just like Heidi. Dogs which have been relinquished to rescue organisations may, when they are re-homed, become overly dependent, which is often reinforced by their new owner who wants to make sure that they can ‘right the wrongs’ and make their new dog very secure. Certain breeds tend to become over attached, but some dogs become over attached via experience. Over attachment can be taught by owners, constantly cuddling, talking to and stroking their dog can make the dog become a Velcro dog: needing to be close to their owner, always. Although some dogs appear to be very clingy to their owner, not all of them become distressed when their owner is absent, very often they are relaxed when left. However, other dogs can become very stressed and anxious or extremely frustrated when their owner is not present.
Astrid Powlowski
2025-07-02 13:57:36
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: 8
Sometimes, however, certain individual dogs prefer the company of just one person. Adult rescue dogs can also choose to spend more time with one person, over another. Generally speaking, dogs will form a strong attachment to people who offer them the most affection, time and attention. Dogs can sometimes bond with a person who isn’t their primary carer, although this tends to be a rarer situation. Certain breeds, such as German Shepherds and chow chows often gravitate towards a single person. Puppies, in particular, will tend to bond with the person who offers them the most attention and provides them with food and daily care.
Beatrice Hauck
2025-06-22 14:35:47
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: 11
Rescue dogs may develop over attachment from excessive fuss and attention in the initial period, which can lead to problems later. Ensure all the family and regular visitors interact with your dog so they do not get too attached to one person and try and use the same commands to avoid confusing the dog. Many rescue dogs will become stressed if you try to hold them close and may bite. Do not hold tight or cuddle your dog in the early part of your new relationship. Give your dog time to settle in with you and get some trust in you before expecting him to mix with and greet other dogs and people. It could take weeks, or even months. Keep early interaction low key. Move around the dog casually, wait until he comes to you, then gently praise this behaviour, keep touching to a minimum and minimise eye contact.
Laurine Cummerata
2025-06-14 06:37:47
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: 7
Rescue dogs will become stressed if you try to hold them close and may bite. Do not hold your dog tightly or cuddle your dog in the early part of your new relationship. Your dog may develop over attachment from excessive fuss and attention in this initial period, which can lead to problems later. Once your dog is settled then ensure all the family and regular visitors interact with your dog so they do not get too attached to one person. Ensure your dog has alone time from day 1 or you will find he cannot be left. Nearly every owner of a rescue dog thinks their dog has had the worst possible life. Remember dogs live in the moment, so do not make allowances or excuses for behaviour you do not want just because you think your dog may have been ill-treated. Spend time with your dog and try to have positive interactions such as daily grooming, games and fun. Give your dog a quiet, comfortable place of his own where he can go and not be disturbed – a bed, or an open crate.
Addie Yost
2025-06-06 19:27:39
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: 6
Their key socialization period is of utmost importance in establishing who gets to be the true master. Up until six months, your pup will form their strongest bonds with whoever cares for them during this period. It is important to state that puppies are not the only ones capable of forming such strong bonds, as perfect companionship can be formed between dogs and humans regardless of age, gender, or breed. Such is the case of sleeping alongside one person, spending the majority of time with that one individual, or providing a safe and supportive environment to the dog, especially if he was rescued, adopted, or bought from an animal shelter. At the same time, physical affection does solidify the bond between a dog and a person. If you offer them treats, spend one-on-one time with them every day, if you give them grooming sessions, massages, and plenty of love, they will respond in a positive manner. You can see how much you mean to them by observing their behavior around you: dropped-down ears, rolling over and wagging their tail are just some of the ways they like to show affection. Normally, you would expect your pup to have a stronger bond with you, their primary caregiver, however, it does not always happen that way. Sometimes, a dog’s favorite person may be one that does not actually take care of them 24/7.