Help! My Dog Thinks I’m a Couch | Why does my Great Dane sit on me?

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Why Does My Great Dane Sit on Me? The Endearing Truth About This Giant Lap Dog Behavior


Why Does My Great Dane Sit on Me? The Endearing Truth About This Giant Lap Dog Behavior

If you’re lucky enough to be loved by a Great Dane, you’ve likely experienced their adorable (and slightly overwhelming) habit of sitting on you. At 100+ pounds, these giant dogs are anything but lap dogs. But that doesn’t stop them from thinking otherwise! So, why does my Great Dane sit on me despite their massive size? Let’s uncover the surprising, heartwarming reasons behind this lovable (and sometimes hilarious) behavior.

But why does your Great Dane sit on you? Are they confused? Do they think you’re a couch? Or is there a deeper meaning behind this quirky, lovable behavior? Let’s dive into the sweet, silly, and protective reasons why your Great Dane insists on using you as their personal chair.

1. It’s Just Who They Are (and It’s Adorable)

Let’s start with the simplest explanation: it’s just how Great Danes are wired. They’re affectionate, silly, and completely unaware of personal space. In the mind of a Great Dane, sitting on you is perfectly normal behavior.

These gentle giants are known for their Velcro-dog personalities, meaning they want to be as close to you as possible all the time. Sitting on you isn’t just normal, it’s expected if you have a Great Dane.

Translation: “If I fit, I sit... even if I don’t fit.”

2. They See You as Part of Their Pack

Despite being domesticated for thousands of years, dogs still have strong pack instincts. In the wild, pack members sleep close together for protection and warmth. So, why does my Great Dane sit on me? They’re following this deeply ingrained behavior, seeking comfort, security, and closeness with their “pack.”

In their mind: “You’re my pack, and packs stick together.”

3. They Crave Your Attention (and Know How to Get It)

Let’s be honest: You can’t ignore 150 pounds of dog climbing onto your lap. Great Danes are attention-seeking masters, and sitting on you is the ultimate way to grab your focus.

Check out this hilarious Instagram video of Margot sitting on her human sister’s lap. It went viral with 1.4 million views, proof that Great Danes sitting on their humans is just too funny (and relatable) to resist!

4. You’re Basically a Human Heater

Let’s face it—Great Danes get cold easily. Their short coat provides minimal insulation, meaning they’re always on the hunt for a warm spot. And guess what? You’re the warmest, coziest thing in the house.

Your lap is like a personal heated blanket with a built-in comfort feature: your love. Why does my Great Dane sit on me even when there’s clearly no room? If it’s chilly outside or after a bath, expect your Dane to snuggle up like they’re preparing for a snowstorm, whether there’s space or not. 

5. They Think They’re Lap Dogs (and It’s Your Fault)

Great Danes might be giant dogs, but they don’t know that. In their minds, they’re still tiny puppies who used to fit perfectly in your lap.

Translation: “I fit... kind of... don’t I?”

6. They Miss You (Even If You Were Gone for Five Minutes)

Great Danes are emotionally sensitive dogs that form deep bonds with their owners. Even if you’ve only been gone for a few minutes, they’ll greet you as if you’ve returned from a year-long adventure.

Their thought process: “You left me... but you came back... and now I’m sitting on you so you don’t disappear again.”

7. They’re Showing You Love (In the Most Dramatic Way Possible)

For a Great Dane, sitting on you = love. It’s their way of saying, “I love you so much that I physically can’t be any closer to you.”

8. They’re Trying to Keep You Safe

Despite being gentle giants, Great Danes are naturally protective. Why does my Great Dane sit on me? It could be their way of keeping watch while staying close. They’re instinctively guarding you while making sure you’re safe and sound

9. They’re Marking You as “Theirs”

Dogs are territorial creatures, and sitting on you could be your Great Dane’s way of marking you as “theirs.” They’re not being possessive, just affectionate in a hilariously “I own you” kind of way.

Is It a Problem If My Great Dane Sits on Me?

Sitting on you is usually harmless, but it can become an issue if it gets too demanding or if they try to claim dominance. If your Dane insists on sitting on you at inconvenient times, try these tips:

  • Teach Commands: Use commands like “off” or “stay.” Consider this dog training program for help with gentle and effective training techniques.
  • Create a Cozy Alternative: Offer a comfy dog bed nearby.
  • Reward Good Behavior: Use positive reinforcement when they choose their bed over your lap.

Conclusion: Sitting on You Means You’re Loved

Why does my Great Dane sit on me? When your Great Dane sits on you, it’s their way of saying, “I love you, I need you, and I want to be near you, always.

For more heartwarming, funny, and helpful Great Dane tips, visit the Love Margot Great Dane Blog. Life’s better when shared with a Great Dane, even if they think they’re a lap dog!

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