London-based Yasmin El-Saie is a Holistic Dog Anxiety Expert, Canine Reiki Practitioner & ‘Dog Whisperer’ and has shared the dog breeds she considers to be the best ‘Velcro Dogs’, who stick close by their humans, and what to do if it gets too much.

Labrador Retrievers, this breed is known for their loyalty and affection. They were bred to work closely with humans, which makes them keen to stay close to their owners and share in all their daily activities.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are true lapdogs and love companionship, they are likely to form close bonds and emotional connections with their favourite people.

Border Collies are very intelligent and follow human cues easily, they have a natural sensitivity and desire to please their owners.

Vizslas are often known as “Velcro Vizslas,” this is a dog that craves physical closeness, builds deep emotional bonds and can easily become anxious if separated from their owners.

Australian Shepherds are very loyal and people-focused dogs. They were bred as herding dogs, to work alongside people, so they naturally active and enjoy being with their humans.

German Shepherds are a protective and devoted breed, they bond deeply and often stay near their owners, acting as both companions and guardians.

Chihuahuas – Tiny but mighty, Chihuahuas often choose one main person to follow everywhere. They offer loyalty and constant emotional connection — but sometimes with an overprotective streak. Despite their tiny size, Chihuahuas have big personalities and form strong attachments. They are often highly people-oriented and attentive to every emotional cue from their favourite human.

Golden Retrievers are a friendly and emotionally intelligent breed, they are connected to their owners, often sensing their owner’s moods, and are keen to offer their companionship by staying close.

As wonderful as the companionship of a ‘Velcro Dog’ is, it can sometimes become problematic. Yasmin suggests building confidence and independence as early as possible:

“My advice is from the get-go, encourage your dog to spend time resting in their own space — create an area that’s specifically theirs, a comfy bed, cozy crate, or nook under the stairs, and start with short periods apart, gradually increasing the time little by little – so they learn they are safe, that it’s ok to be alone sometimes, and that their humans will come home to them.

“Physical closeness is lovely, but dogs also need the structure of gentle routines, and calming energy help them feel secure ,as dog parents we need to learn balance connection with boundaries.”

With clinginess often stemming from under-stimulation or insecurity, Yasmin explains that regular exercise, play, and even gentle energy work like Reiki can be helpful, balancing a dogs nervous system.

“Dogs pick up on our feelings so be aware of yourself! For example, if we are getting ready to leave home, and we’re feeling guilty for leaving our dog at home, or we are late for work, or we are rushing, our actions and body language can become frantic and our canine companions pick up on this. So they feel there is something to be stressed about and suddenly the simple act of you leaving home becomes a traumatic experience for them. It is so important to be cool, and act like it’s the most natural thing for you to gently leave home without the kerfuffle, telling your dog it’s ok.”

Some people find gradual desensitization to address separation anxiety mindfully works well. — for example, put on your shoes and pick up your keys without leaving, so those cues lose their emotional charge. Yasmin also suggests a short walk or play session before heading out – to burn energy and reduces stress, and leaving on soothing music while you are gone.

“Get your dog a “licking toy”! There are some cool toys out there which you can fill with a delicious dog paste or little mats with perforations where you can apply the paste. Your dog will spend a long time trying to lick the treat out of the toy. What’s the benefit? Licking reduces stress levels in dogs.”

If your dog starts displaying guarding behaviour and growls or tries to stop others from approaching you, don’t punish them — they’re coming from a place of fear and over-attachment. Work on confidence-building exercises and rewarding calm behaviour as it happens.

Yasmin also recommends pheromone collar or diffusers: “They are a great way to create calm and reduce stress for your dog. The products release feel good chemicals which calm your dog. The plug in is great for areas in your home where your dog gets extra stressed and the collar can be worn at all times. Thundershirts are also a very cool invention. Scientists discovered that autistic children felt comforted and safe being wrapped snuggly, so they took this concept and made a doggie version – perfect for when our dogs need some extra care.”