Be with dog the whole time? Meet strangers?

Question

I love my dog, I feed, walk and play with it daily. She follows me from room to room. It's nice but sometimes I want some alone time. Is it okay to let her sleep outside my door at times? Or do dogs need to constantly be near you? Most of the time, my family is at home as well but she prefers me. I also prefer to sleep without my dog, she goes to sleep under my parents bed tho.

Also, my dog LOVES other people and goes crazy when somebody comes over, but for the most part - is she OKAY being just with her family of 3 people or does she NEED to meet other people? What do you all think? Thanks.

Answer 1

She should be out meeting other people and other dogs so that, if need be, she'll know how to act around them and what is acceptable behavior. That being said, it's cool if you don't want her to sleep with you all the time, I don't like having my dogs sleep with me either!

Answer 2

You may consider crating your dog. It would be great if you are able to build up the length where she will be able to sleep in it all night. it sounds like your girl is already a bit of a cave dog so it should be second nature for her.

Doggy socialization is a VERY important aspect of doggy development and being happy and well rounded.

Answer 3

She sounds fine.  My dogs don't sleep with me, but they see me often.  A lone dog will seek out attention because they are pack animals.  You could let her sleep with you on a bed of her own, but it will take training to not get her up on your own bed.  Buy her a nice bedding pad (WalMart, PetSmart) and give it to her as a treat.  She will like it and learn that it's HER spot.