It is common for puppies to become more affectionate to their owners as they age. This could be because their reliance on their owners grows.
It could also be because their bond with their owners has been strengthened over time or because they no longer have excess energy and prefer to bond with their owners by showing affection rather than energetic play.
Why is My Puppy Not Affectionate?
There are several reasons why your puppy is not affectionate. Firstly, your puppy may have experienced neglect or abuse when it was very young. This can give a puppy fear or anxiety around humans.
Furthermore, some dogs just enjoy their personal space. Some puppies just don’t enjoy petting or cuddling. Your puppy may not be affectionate because of its nature.
Another reason is that your puppy may be feeling territorial. It may feel more trusting toward a different member of the family. Observe if your puppy is affectionate with other people or doesn’t show affection to anyone.
It might also seem as if your puppy is not affectionate because it shows affection in different ways. Look out for other ways your puppy might be showing affection towards you other than cuddling.
Is it Normal for Puppies not to be Affectionate?
It is normal for some puppies not to be affectionate. But, like humans, all dogs are different. Some enjoy cuddling, and some don’t.
If your puppy was once affectionate and suddenly isn’t, this could be an indication of something more serious.
At What Age do Puppies Become more Affectionate?
There is no specific age at which puppies become more affectionate. Some puppies are affectionate from the moment they leave the litter, and some never become affectionate.
The levels of affection your puppy displays will be dependent on their life experiences, personality, and breed.
Why is it Taking so Long for my Puppy to be More Affectionate?
This is because all dogs are different. You cannot force your puppy to become more affectionate more quickly. The best thing you can do is work on strengthening and reinforcing the bond between you and your puppy.
What Can I do to Make my Puppy More Affectionate Now?
Here are steps you can take to make your puppy more affectionate now:
- Pick your puppy up frequently and try placing it on your lap
- Rub its head and back
- Use a soothing and calming voice when speaking to your puppy
- Lean over the top of your puppy when trying to hug them
- Repeat these steps several times a day
Final Thoughts on Puppies Getting More Affectionate with Age
It is common to find that your puppy becomes more affectionate with age. However, this is not a rule, as all dogs are different. The amount of affection your puppy displays may be down to their breed, life experiences, and personality rather than just age.