Do you have a Boston Terrier that follows you around everywhere? If so, you’re not alone! Boston Terriers are one of the most clingy (lovable) dog breeds out there. There are several reasons why Boston Terriers may be more attached to their owners than other dogs.
In this blog post, we will discuss the reasons why Boston Terriers follow their owners and give some examples of why this behavior may occur, plus cover tips on how to stop this behavior if it is bothering you. We will also talk about the difference between puppies and senior Boston Terriers in terms of attachment to their owners.
13 Reasons Your Boston Terrier Is Following You Everywhere
1. They Love You
The first and most obvious reason your Boston Terrier is following you everywhere is that they love you! Boston Terriers are incredibly loyal dogs who form strong bonds with their owners. Once they’ve bonded with you, they’ll want to be near you as much as possible.
Watch this video I created on YouTube: 6 Scientific Sciences Your Boston Terrier Loves You.
2. They’re Protective
Another reason your Boston Terrier may be following you around is that they’re protective of you. Boston Terriers are natural watchdogs and will want to stay close to you in order to protect you from any potential threats.
I have some real examples of Bella, my Boston Terrier, being a little watchdog in this article here on Boston Terrier Society: Are Boston Terriers Good Guard Dogs?
3. They’re Curious
Boston Terriers are also very curious dogs and may follow you around in order to see what you’re up to. If you’re constantly moving around and doing things, they’ll want to know what’s going on and will follow you in order to keep an eye on things. Especially when you are going to the bathroom lol.
4. They Want Your Attention
It’s also possible that your Boston Terrier is following you because they want your attention. Like all dogs, Boston Terriers crave attention and affection from their owners. If they feel like they’re not getting enough attention, they may start following you around in order to get it.
5. They’re Bored
Another possibility is that your Boston Terrier is simply bored and is looking for something to do. If they don’t have anything else to occupy their time, following you around may seem like a fun way to pass the time.
6. They Have Separation Anxiety
Some dogs follow their owners around because they suffer from separation anxiety. This is a condition where the dog becomes anxious and stressed when separated from their owner. If your Boston Terrier follows you everywhere, it’s possible that they have separation anxiety and should be seen by a veterinarian.
Boston Terriers are prone to separation anxiety. To learn more about separation anxiety in Boston Terriers and what to do about it, read this article: How To Help Your Boston Terrier With Separation Anxiety.
7. They Need Exercise
Another possibility is that your Boston Terrier is following you because they need more exercise than they’re getting. Boston Terriers need about 30 minutes of exercise per day, so if they’re not getting enough, it’s possible that they’ll start following you around in an attempt to burn off some energy.
8. They Smell Something Interesting
Dogs have an incredible sense of smell, and it’s possible that your Boston Terrier is following you because they’ve picked up on a scent that’s interesting to them. Whether it’s something you’re wearing or holding, if they smell something interesting, they’ll want to follow you until they figure out what it is.
Check out this amazing video about a Dogs ability to smell. The video was created by PBS Digital Studios. If you want to be fascinated by the interesting facts, watch this video.
9. They Hear Something Interesting
Similarly, Boston Terriers also have an excellent sense of hearing and may start following you if they hear something that piques their interest. Whether it’s a sound coming from outside or something else entirely, if they hear something interesting, they’ll want to follow it until they figure out what it is.
Learn more about how dogs process information to hear. In this video, they explain the science behind how dogs hear, just like we do.
10. They Smell Your Food
I know! This is just like the one mentioned above, but it is worth repeating, and just in case you have a sandwich in your hand right now. Boston Terriers have an incredible sense of smell, so it’s possible that they’re following you because they can smell the food you have with you! If you’re carrying around a bag of chips or a sandwich, chances are good that your dog knows about it and wants a taste.
11. They Know You Have a Treat for Them
If you often give your Boston Terrier treats when they follow you around, then it’s likely that they’ve learned that this behavior gets them a reward. As a result, they’ll continue to follow you in the hopes of getting another treat!
12. They Want to Go Where You’re Going
Another possibility is that your dog simply wants to go where you’re going. If you usually take them on walks or to the park, then they may assume that every time you leave the house, it’s because you’re going somewhere fun and exciting. As a result, they’ll want to tag along just in case!
Does your Boston act like Calvin when you leave to go somewhere?
13. They Sense Your Emotions
Dogs are incredibly attuned to their owner’s emotions, so it’s possible that your Boston Terrier is following you because they sense that something is wrong. If you seem sad or upset, chances are good that your dog will want to comfort you by staying close by your side.
Watch this video by the BBC covering the scientific research into can dogs understand human emotions:
Tips On How To Help Your Boston Terrier Stop Following You Everywhere
1. Set Some Ground Rules
The first step to getting your Boston Terrier to stop following you everywhere is to set some ground rules. Let your dog know that there are certain places they are not allowed to go, such as your bedroom or the kitchen. You can do this by using baby gates or keeping doors closed.
2. Give Them Their Own Space
Another way to help your Boston Terrier stop following you everywhere is to give them their own space. This can be a crate, a bed, or even just a designated area in the house where they can relax and be alone.
For my Bella, her own place is in the dining room, where she has a bed and crate. You can see her safe place in the very first 8 seconds of this video I created covering, does your Dog Secretly hate you. Yes, the title is a bit much, but I thought it would be an interesting video…the editing at least makes me laugh.
3. Get Them Used To Being Alone
If your Boston Terrier is used to being around people all the time, they may start following you everywhere out of fear of being left alone. To help them get used to being alone, start by leaving them alone for short periods of time, gradually increasing the amount of time they’re left alone until they’re comfortable being by themselves.
Treat this time just like a parent does with their kids, where you have nap time or quiet time during the day.
4. Avoid Rewarding Unwanted Behavior
If you inadvertently reward your Boston Terrier’s unwanted behavior by giving them attention when they follow you around, they may continue doing it in order to get more attention from you. Instead, only give them attention when they’re behaving in the way you want them to, such as when they’re relaxing in their own space.
5. Ignore Them When They Follow You
One of the best ways to get your Boston Terrier to stop following you is to simply ignore them when they do it. Do not make eye contact, speak to them, or pet them when they are following you around. Eventually, they will get the message that this behavior is not desired and will stop doing it.
6. Give Them Attention When They Are Not Following You
One way to help prevent your Boston Terrier from following you everywhere is to give them attention when they are not doing it. This means praising them and giving them treats when they are behaving well and staying in their own space.
7. Exercise Them Regularly
Another way to help your Boston Terrier stop following you everywhere is to make sure they are getting enough exercise. A tired dog is a good dog, so take them on regular walks, runs, or play sessions at the park.
If you need some exercise ideas, here are different workouts you can do WITH your Boston. I have created one set of workout ideas for summer and winter, so choose accordingly. Winter Exercise Ideas or Summer Exercise Ideas.
8. Keep Mealtimes Consistent
If your Boston Terrier is following you around because they think you have food, then one way to stop this behavior is to keep mealtimes consistent. Feed them at the same time each day and put their food in their bowl in the same spot every time. This will help them realize that there is no need to follow you around looking for food because they know where their next meal will come from.
If it is hard to feed at the same time every day because of your schedule or you simply forget, look into buying a self-feeding dog food bowl. There are some inexpensive options, and it can help create a better routine for your Boston. Check out prices and options on Amazon here: Automatic Dog Food Feeders.
9. Make Sure They Have Enough Stimulation
If your Boston Terrier is following you around because they are bored, then one way to stop this behavior is to make sure they have enough stimulation throughout the day. This can include interactive toys, puzzle toys, chew toys, and anything else that will keep their mind occupied and engaged.
Check out this video below, where you can see some examples of brain game toys you can get for your Boston Terrier.
If you want to look at buying some brain game toys, visit Amazon by clicking here to check them out: Brain Game Toys.
10. Do NOT Punish Them
It is important to avoid punishing your Boston Terrier if they are following you around too much. This includes yelling at them or hitting them, as this will only serve to scare or hurt them without actually solving the problem. If you must discipline your dog, do so in a calm and positive manner that will not scare or hurt them
11. Consult a professional trainer or behaviorist
If you’re struggling to stop your Boston Terrier from following you around everywhere, consult a professional trainer or behaviorist who can help you create a customized training plan for your dog.
If you want to learn how you can start training your Boston Terrier on your own terms and put a stop to unwanted behavior, check out Dr. Dunbar’s online Dog Training Academy.
My Boston Terrier Follows Me Everywhere. When Should I Get Help?
Boston Terriers are known for being loyal, loving companions. Many Boston owners find that their dog follows them everywhere they go, even to the bathroom! While this behavior is often harmless, it can sometimes be indicative of a more serious problem.
If your Boston Terrier follows you to the point of becoming a nuisance or is exhibiting other obsessive behaviors, it may be time to seek professional help. A qualified animal behaviorist can help you to identify the underlying cause of your dog’s behavior and develop a plan to address it.
With patience and consistent training, you can help your Boston Terrier to break this habit and live a happy, healthy life.
Why Is My Boston Terrier Suddenly Following Me Around
Boston Terriers are bred to be companions, and they typically form strong bonds with their human families. If your Boston Terrier has suddenly started following you around everywhere you go, it’s likely that he or she is just trying to spend more time with you.
Boston Terriers are intelligent dogs, and they quickly learn their family’s routines. If you’ve been working long hours lately or spending less time at home, your dog may have picked up on that and is just trying to make sure you’re never out of his sight.
Of course, it’s always possible that there’s another reason for your dog’s change in behavior, so if you’re concerned, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian or dog trainer.
Why Does My Boston Terrier Puppy Follow Me Around?
Boston Terrier puppies are known for their affectionate nature and their love of companionship. If you have a Boston Terrier puppy, you may have noticed that your pup seems to follow you everywhere you go. There are actually a few reasons why Boston Terrier puppies may tend to stick close to their owners.
First, Boston Terrier puppies are very social animals, and they enjoy being around people. They also like to be wherever the action is, and they may follow you around in order to stay close to the center of the action.
Finally, Boston Terrier puppies may follow their owners because they look to their owners for guidance and leadership.
Why Does My Senior Boston Terrier Follow Me Around?
Have you ever noticed that your senior dog always seems to be right by your side? If so, you’re not alone. Many dog owners report that their furry companions become more clingy as they age.
While it may be annoying at times, this behavior is actually quite normal. Senior dogs often follow their owners around because they crave companionship and feel insecure when they’re left alone. In some cases, this behavior can also be a sign of separation anxiety or other health issues. Other reasons could be simply out of habit.
If your senior dog suddenly starts following you everywhere, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health problems. Or use your veterinarian to get into contact with a canine behaviorist. In the meantime, try to give your furry friend plenty of attention and affection to help ease their anxiety.
Learn more about Separation Anxiety In Boston Terrier by watching this interview I did on the Boston Terrier Society YouTube Channel:
Why Does My Rescued Boston Terrier Follow Me Around?
If you have recently adopted a Boston Terrier, you may have noticed that your new dog follows you around everywhere you go. While it may be flattering to have a furry shadow, you may be wondering why your dog feels the need to be so close. There are a few possible explanations.
First, your Boston may simply enjoy your company and want to be near you as much as possible. Alternatively, your Boston may be experiencing separation anxiety and feel more comfortable when you are nearby.
Finally, your Boston may be trying to protect you from perceived threats. Whatever the reason, it is important to provide your Boston Terrier with plenty of love and attention to help them feel secure in their new home.
If you still have concerns about their clinginess, speak with your veterinarian for guidance. and check out the article I wrote about Boston Terrier Separation Anxiety.
Why Does My Boston Terrier Follow Me To The Bathroom?
If you’ve ever had a dog, you’ve probably noticed that they tend to follow you around the house. But have you ever wondered why they seem to be particularly interested in accompanying you to the bathroom?
I did a survey of over 200 Boston Terrier owners on the Boston Terrier Society’s YouTube Channel, and over 80% of them reported that their Boston Terrier follows them to the bathroom. So if your Boston does this, no worries you’re not alone. Just know there are actually a few different reasons for this behavior.
For one thing, dogs are very social creatures, and they generally enjoy being near their human companions. They also pick up on cues from our behavior, so if we’re constantly getting up and going to the bathroom, they might start to think that’s something they should do as well.
Additionally, many dogs are drawn to the running water in the sink or tub, which can be appealing to their sense of curiosity.
Finally, some experts believe that dogs see us as pack leaders, and so they feel the need to stay close by in order to protect us.
Which Dog Breeds Are Most Likely To Follow Their Owners Around
If you would like to know which dog breeds follow their owners around the most, here are some of the top three that I could find. This is from doing research and finding articles covering the topic on iheartdogs.com as well as hillspets.com.
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world and they are also one of the most likely to follow their owners around.
Golden Retriever
Like Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers are also known for being loyal, affectionate, and obedient. Golden Retrievers are slightly less energetic than Labs, but they still enjoy spending time outdoors. Golden Retrievers make great family pets and they love to play fetch.
Border Collie
Border collies are one of the most loyal dog breeds. They love to be around their owners and often follow them everywhere they go. This is because border collies are bred to be working dogs. They need a lot of exercise and interaction, so following their owner around is the best way to get it.
Final Thoughts
Boston Terriers are clingy dogs that tend to follow their owners around. There are several possible explanations for this behavior, including separation anxiety, fear of abandonment, or simply being lovesick.
No matter the reason behind your dog’s clinginess, it is important to provide them with plenty of love and attention.
If you are struggling to handle a clingy Boston Terrier, consider seeking out professional help from a certified trainer. Dr. Dunbar’s Training Academy can provide you with all the resources you need to train your dog and build a strong bond between the two of you.