Mom Gets Elderly Clingy Dog Special Cushion So He Can Always Stay Close to Her

Diana Logan

December 25, 2024 at 10:05 PM

When a dog gets older, there are certain considerations that need to be made. Walks can be shortened, and maybe it's time to think about softer foods for their old teeth. But one of the main consideration faced by most elderly dogs is sore old joints -- they don't find it as easy to hop in the backs of cars or up on a bed. They may no longer be able to go up and down stairs. Sometimes, even lying down on the hard floor can cause them pain and discomfort. But this family has made things easier for their old dog by putting cushions in high-traffic areas so he can always stay nearby.

In this video, we see the behavior of a so-called "Velcro Dog" who always likes to be near his people, even when they are doing chores like washing dishes.

Related: Confused Senior Shelter Dog Who Just Lost Her Human 'Can't Stop Crying'

All About "Velcro Dogs"

Velcro dogs are dogs that always like being where their people are. They'll follow you from room to room, try to get up on the couch if you are sitting there, and even attempt to keep you company in the bathroom. Some dog breeds (couch, cough, Vizslas) are more known for clinginess than others, but a dog of any breed can possess a personality that doesn't like to be excluded.

Where do you draw the line between a normal amount of clinginess and actual separation anxiety in dogs? On one hand, it's a matter of perspective. But the important part is that though a Velcro Dog would prefer to be near his people, a dog with separation anxiety actually panics and misbehaves when he cannot.

Older Dogs and Joint Issues

Just like humans with arthritis, older dogs can develop joint issues, which manifests as pain and stiffness in their joints. It can usually be managed with special considerations like ramps and cushions, as well as sticking to low impact exercise. In more serious cases, your vet may recommend physical therapy or even medication.

"We now have a dog bed in every room to accommodate our aging velcro dog," commiserates one person in the comments.

"I had a stroller for mine," shares another. "Would just wheel him around the house with me."

"I had to place yoga mats on my hardwood floors so she didn't struggle getting up," said one person. "Looked awful, but she appreciated it."

Another person agrees. "I feel this to my core. Our house looks like a cheap rug store. We have runner rugs of various sizes all over the house so our senior girl can move about."

But it's all worth it for the dog you love. Too many people choose to abandoned their senior dogs in favor of the "newest model" as if they are an appliance or piece of furniture instead of a beloved member of the family.

"Mad respect for loving your pet through harder times," says one comment.

Helping a Senior Dog

Shelters are full of senior dogs abandoned by their families for no reason other than they are getting up there in years and have all the usual issues with age. There they sit, passed over by adopters looking for puppies and completely clueless as to why the family they were so loyal to could dump them like that.

Fortunately, many people still love their dogs, no matter their age or special needs.

"I have the same thing going on," says one fellow caretaker of an elderly canine. "He's fourteen. Oh my heart hurts at the thought of losing him."

And another agrees. "My velcro dog passed on Sunday and I've never missed someone staring at me so much."

Looking for more PetHelpful updates? Follow us on YouTube for more entertaining videos.

Or, share your own adorable pet by submitting a video, and sign up for our newsletter for the latest pet updates and tips.