Why is my dog suddenly wanting more cuddles in bed at night?

You may have inadvertently trained Marley to be such a cuddler - he obviously feels most secure when he's close to you. If you dont like this, you'll have to spend time training him to sleep and rest in his own bed. This is not an overnight process, but is best done with food and verbal rewards. When he is in his bed, toss him small training treats. You can also move his food bowl to be closer to his bed. If he sleeps in bed with you, have his bed on the floor and give him praise when he goes in it. I am a big fan of the ADAPTIL products - such as the pheromone collar and Plug in unit - they will help him feel more comfortable away from you.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It is obvious how much you love Gabby and I suspect she loves you very much too! Most dogs are very bonded to their owners-especially dogs who have been cared for by the same person for years. There may be a reason that she does not want to stay with you in bed. Where does she go? Does she go straight to tile or wood because the bed is just too warm (my own dog started doing this recently). Do you toss and turn and it bothers Gabby? Does a fan blow on her? Is there a new candle or scent in your room? All these things may be reasons Gabby decides to lay down elsewhere. As with most dogs, you can strengthen your bond by petting and sitting together (try laying with her wherever she likes to lay for a few minutes). Playing with toys and working on training is also excellent for showing her you love her. You are doing a great job! Hope this helps and best of luck to you and Gabby!

Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. It is hard to know why an animal suddenly changes their behaviour. He could just be showing affection to you, as it sounds like he is aware of his behaviour. Sometimes behavioral changes can be due to tumors in the brain, however these are more associated with pacing, panting, staring at all, circling, and other 'non-nonsensical' behaviours. If there has been a change in the house, (for example: a new baby or animal or person, renovations, etc.) then he could be responding to this. I would recommend a visit to the vet for a thorough check-up, and maybe some general bloodwork just to make sure there isn't anything medical going on. If that is all clear, then he is likely just showing you love. Best of luck with Bobby!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This is likely just him trying to get your attention. There may be something in the house or just outside that is bothering him so I would check on that. There may be a cat trying to get his attention at night. Best of luck!

I wish our pets could talk. This could be behavioral or medical. Pain from arthritis can cause behavior changes. Dogs can become senile, it could be separation anxiety. Changes in senses like blindness or deafness can cause behavior change. I would recommend an exam to rule out medical problems before assuming it is behavioral. I am a big fan of crate training to give dogs a sense of security and safety. Get a nice orthopedic bed and favorite treats or toys to make this a safe enjoyable space. Hope that helps.

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! If all the dogs are tolerating sharing of the beds I don't think there is much to do or read in to. Since Milo doesn't normally live with you he probably isn't possessive of this bed and he is young at 10 months. Anakin must like the bed. If it bothers you then I would keep removing Anakin from Milo's bed and try to keep each dog in their respective places but it may be a losing battled unless you physically separate the dogs at night in different rooms. I wish you the best!

Many dogs get too hot in the night and want to sleep on the floor. Also if he's now bigger it may be crowded and he needs to stretch out. This is not a problem usually. I would place a mat under the table so he's comfortable and ask him up with you in the morning to snuggle. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Cooper.