Pomeranians, known for their fluffy coats and endearing personalities, often form strong bonds with their owners. If you find your Pomeranian following you from room to room, you’re witnessing a behavior known as “shadowing.” This tendency can be both a sign of affection and a manifestation of their innate characteristics. Drawing from extensive experience with these delightful companions, let’s explore the reasons behind this behavior and how it reflects the unique bond between you and your Pomeranian.
The Bonding Instinct
At the heart of this behavior is the deep bond Pomeranians develop with their owners. They are not just pets but members of the family, seeking companionship and closeness with those they love.
Pack Mentality
Dogs, by nature, are pack animals, and your Pomeranian sees you as part of their pack. Following you around is a way of staying connected with the pack leader, ensuring they’re involved in all pack activities.
Companionship and Affection
Pomeranians are known for their affectionate nature. Following you around is a way of staying close to their favorite person, seeking companionship and opportunities for affection.
Breed Characteristics
Pomeranians were bred to be companion dogs, and their behavior is deeply influenced by this breeding history. They thrive on attention and interaction, which drives them to stay close to their human companions.
Loyalty and Devotion
Pomeranians are fiercely loyal to their owners, often forming a strong attachment to one particular person. This devotion can manifest as a desire to be by your side as much as possible.
Curiosity and Intelligence
Pomeranians are intelligent and curious dogs. They follow their owners around not just for companionship but also to explore their environment and be part of whatever activity is happening.
Separation Anxiety
While it’s normal for Pomeranians to want to be near their owners, excessive following can sometimes indicate separation anxiety. Signs of separation anxiety include distress when you’re preparing to leave, excessive vocalization, and destructive behavior when left alone.
Building Independence
To prevent or address separation anxiety, it’s important to gradually accustom your Pomeranian to being alone. Start with short periods of separation and gradually increase the duration, providing plenty of toys and distractions.
Positive Reinforcement
Reward your Pomeranian for calm behavior when left alone, reinforcing that being independent can also be rewarding.
Encouraging Healthy Attachment
While it’s heartwarming to have a furry shadow, fostering a balance is essential for your Pomeranian’s well-being.
Create a Comfortable Space
Ensure your Pomeranian has a cozy, inviting space of their own where they can relax when you’re not around. This could be a bed, crate, or designated area with their favorite toys.
Regular Exercise and Play
Engage your Pomeranian in regular exercise and playtime to expend energy and provide mental stimulation. This not only strengthens your bond but also helps them feel more relaxed when alone.
Training and Socialization
Training and socialization are key to developing a well-adjusted Pomeranian. Teach them commands like “stay” to help manage their following behavior and expose them to various environments and people to build confidence.
Conclusion
Your Pomeranian’s tendency to follow you everywhere is a testament to the strong bond you share. It reflects their loyalty, affection, and innate characteristics as companion dogs. While it’s important to enjoy this close relationship, it’s equally crucial to encourage independence and confidence in your Pomeranian. Through understanding, training, and balanced attention, you can ensure your Pomeranian feels secure and loved, whether they’re by your side or contentedly resting in their own space.
