We adopted a shelter dog 8 months ago. I am home most of the day, and Gus follows me EVERYWHERE. He's never been left alone more than 4 hours during the day since we adopted him, and NEVER overnight. When I do have to leave him at home alone, I tell him, "Gus has to stay." and he knows that he will not be going with me. Other times, we go to the dog park or some other place where he can run and explore new smells. The problem is that I'm not one to sit around the house, so I find myself stepping on or tripping over Gus at every turn. And he's not just in the same room with me, he's glued to my heels! He doesn't even enjoy being in the yard if I'm not out there with him every minute. He looks hurt when I tell him to go lie down to get him out of the way for a few minutes. What can I do to make Gus a little more independent?

Does he have a kennel (crate)? Does he spend time in it with the door open? Do you give him, say, a Nylabone to chew on or some other toy to chew on maybe with peanut butter inside? (I'm a cat person, so am hoping a dog expert will show up soon.) How much do you walk him each day? Like regularly in the morning and evening?

Love your question, you made me laugh. Well there's a problem because it is a dogs nature to want to be with you every waking moment of their lives. Best thing is to take him obedience school to learn to sit an stay, that way he can stay while start to walk (may have be a very fast walk they catch quickly) if this is not possible then watch Cesar Milan "The Dog Whisper", Google him to learn more an see what channels an times he's on. Another option is get another playmate meaning doggie. This will make you both happy but will cost a lot more money in the long run. Happy Dog Days! Seriously I hope this does help you. Signed more than one dog owner. Lol, God Bless

Thank you for your suggestions. I have an application pending to foster another dog. I'm hopeful that Gus will enjoy the company and that it will give me a few moments maybe while they play in the yard etc. He does love other dogs!

Gus sees you as his alpha, which is a good thing. His personality may be more dependent than most dogs and he doesn't want you out of his sight for fear of you leaving him. A playmate, different gender and age should be a good thing. You will be asked to bring him to a meet and greet for the new dog option. Then and only then will you see if they clcik.

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Originally Posted by ballengerb1

Gus sees you as his alpha, which is a good thing. His personality may be more dependant than most dogs and he doesn't want you out of his sight for fear of you leaving him. A playmate, different gender and age should be a good thing. You will be asked to bring him to a meet and greet for the new dog option. Then and only then will you see if they clcik.

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Thanks! I have hope!