Clingy Black Cocker Spaniel Loves To Sit On His Owner Like A Human Child

Dogs are clingy. Cats are clingy. Pets are, in general, clingy. They love their humans. But this clingy black cocker spaniel named Moosey takes things to the next level sometimes, as chronicled by this Instagram post showing all the ways he acts almost like a human child (although not actually dressed up as a child like this toy poodle).  

In response to whether cocker spaniels are "Velcro dogs," the content creator makes a point of saying, "let's just say, if cocker spaniels could crawl inside of you they would." Then, we see the dog giving hugs, smooshing his face up against his mom's, and sitting on his human mom's lap as if he were a literal child.

"They're the BEST!!" wrote one person in the comments of the content creator's Facebook post about clingy cocker spaniels, as another shared a pic of her spaniels camped out on the bathroom floor and asked, "I mean do you get to go to the bathroom alone?" The answer to that is no, as the Moosey reel also showed him draping his head over the edge of the bathtub like the clingy soul that he is!

If your cocker spaniel (one of many spaniel breeds) follows you from room to room, curls up against you every chance they get, or stares at you like you've been gone for years after a five-minute bathroom break, you're not alone. These affectionate pups are famous for being clingy (which is why they're often called "Velcro dogs"), and their behavior has a lot to do with their history.

Originally bred to work alongside hunters, cocker spaniels developed a strong desire to stay close to their humans and respond to their cues. That people-focused nature hasn't disappeared just because today's spaniels are more likely to follow you to the kitchen than through a field. As domesticated pets, their innate traits have morphed into the breed enjoying companionship and being sensitive to their owners' moods, making them eager to stay involved in whatever is happening.

Fortunately, you can encourage independence without sacrificing any of the bond you have with your dog. Things like puzzle toys and regular exercise provide mental stimulation, while teaching your dog to relax on their own bed helps build confidence. Practicing short periods apart can also help. However, if your spaniel panics, whines excessively, or becomes destructive when alone, those separation anxiety signs could mean anxiety is the culprit, so seeking advice from a trusted veterinarian or trained behavioral specialist could be beneficial. Otherwise, just enjoy the ride of having a clingy little furball next to you at all times!