Why do I feel such an overwhelming, unconditional love for my dog?

That is wonderful!! Our two dogs are our children along with our son. We call them our fur babies :-) It's great that you want the best for her, and reach out for help when you have concerns about her and Zeus. It's exactly what you should do when you have a pet, and shows how much you love them.

They aren’t doing this because they see you as a pack leader, they do it because they love you!! I have a Chow, and while I know she loves me, she doesn’t do this. It’s because she is a Chow and they can be a bit reserved. My point is, if it was a pack thing, all dogs would do it

Good question! It's one of those times where it would be neat if you could talk to your dog and they answered. Dogs, just like people, can get favorites without any real rhyme or reason to it. However, if you're trying to bond a bit more closely to Oscar, offering a favorite treat every time you spend time together, or playing with a favorite toy may help get him a little closer to 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!

This is not an easy question at all and would depend on a vaste variety of factors indeed. If I may, I would recommend this simple test sponsored by the american kennel club about having a new dog (or a dog for the first time). https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/quizzes/are-you-ready-to-get-a-dog/ Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

What a cute puppy! Don't worry too much, dogs show affection in different ways. It could simply be a case that the pup sees you all the time but gets really excited because she doesn't see your girlfriend as often. Also dogs are very hierarchical so the pup may see you as the alpha, more of a boss figure. Whereas your girlfriend could be viewed more as a friend.

Great question. Most dogs respond best to the family member who spends the most time doing things such as feeding, walking, bathing. It sounds like you are that person. I'm sure she loves you but your Mom may have a special bond of some kind that seems to attract you dog's attention. Continue to work on it and over time find the special things such as rubbing her ears, or massaging her back, that makes you the person she wants to be around most. Small treats can be a great motivator. She is still a young dog so plenty of time to develop that special bond between you and your dog. Best of luck. Thanks, Dr Steve Popish.