Why Does My Dog Try To Suffocate Me

Is your dog trying to suffocate you? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many dog owners have experienced this strange behavior and wondered what it means. In this article, we’ll explore some possible reasons why your dog might be doing this and what you can do about it.

First, let’s clarify what we mean by “suffocate”. Dogs can’t really suffocate humans in the sense of cutting off their air supply. However, they can certainly obstruct their breathing or make them feel uncomfortable by getting too close to their face or neck. Some dogs even press down on their owners’ chests or wrap their paws around their necks, which can be alarming if not dangerous.

Now, why would a dog do such a thing? Here are some explanations that experts and dog lovers have proposed:

1. Affection: Your dog may simply be showing you how much he loves you by trying to get as close to you as possible. Dogs are social animals that thrive on physical contact and emotional bond with their pack members (including humans). By nuzzling or leaning on you, your dog may be expressing his desire for closeness and comfort.

2. Protection: Your dog may perceive you as vulnerable or threatened by something (real or imaginary) and want to guard you from harm. Dogs are instinctively protective of their families and may interpret your anxiety, illness, or weakness as a sign of danger. By hovering over you or blocking your breathing, your dog may think he’s shielding you from harm.

3. Attention: Your dog may be seeking attention from you by using his body language to communicate his needs. Dogs often learn that certain behaviors elicit responses from their owners (such as petting, playing, or feeding) and may repeat them if they work. By pawing at your face or whining in your ear, your dog may be saying “Hey, look at me, I want something from you!”

4. Anxiety: Your dog may be anxious or stressed about something in his environment (such as loud noises, new people, or separation) and seek comfort from you. Dogs may also display obsessive-compulsive behaviors (such as licking, pawing, or biting) when they are anxious or bored. By trying to suffocate you, your dog may be channeling his energy into a repetitive action that distracts him from his anxiety.

5. Playfulness: Your dog may simply want to play with you and use his mouth as a way of interacting with you. Dogs often play-bite each other as a form of socialization and communication, and may transfer this behavior to humans if they lack appropriate toys or training. By biting your nose or ears, your dog may be inviting you to join in his game.

Of course, these explanations are not mutually exclusive and may overlap in some cases. For example, your dog may be affectionate and protective at the same time, or anxious and playful depending on the context. It’s up to you to observe your dog’s body language, vocalization, and general demeanor to determine what he’s trying to convey.

Now that we’ve explored why dogs try to suffocate their owners, let’s talk about what you can do to prevent this behavior or redirect it into more desirable ones:

1. Training: You can teach your dog alternative behaviors that are more acceptable than suffocating you. For example, you can train him to sit calmly beside you when you’re watching TV instead of climbing on your lap. You can also teach him commands such as “off”, “stay”, or “leave it” to discourage unwanted contact.

2. Boundaries: You can set clear boundaries for your dog’s physical interaction with you by using verbal cues and body language. For example, you can say “no” firmly when he tries to put his mouth on your face, and turn away from him to show you’re not interested. You can also pet him under the chin or on the chest instead of the head or neck.

3. Enrichment: You can provide your dog with plenty of mental and physical stimulation to reduce his anxiety and boredom. This can include toys that he can chew, fetch, or puzzle out, as well as daily walks, runs, or playtime with other dogs. By giving your dog a constructive outlet for his energy, you can decrease the likelihood of him using you as a target.

4. Health: You should always consider your dog’s health when he displays unusual behavior, including trying to suffocate you. Some medical conditions (such as respiratory problems, allergies, or pain) may make it difficult for him to breathe properly or cause him discomfort when he’s close to you. By taking your dog to regular vet checkups and addressing any underlying issues, you can ensure his overall well-being.

In conclusion, while dogs trying to suffocate their owners may seem bizarre or even scary at times, it usually stems from normal canine instincts and emotions. Understanding why your dog does this and how to address it can strengthen your bond with him and improve his quality of life. Just remember to use positive reinforcement, consistency, and patience in your training approach, and never punish your dog for expressing himself in ways that are natural for him. With love and respect, you can enjoy a happy coexistence with your furry friend that doesn’t involve any choking!