Why Does My Staffy Sit On Me? [5 Possible Reasons]

Have you ever thought to yourself, “Why is my Staffy sitting on me when there’s half an empty sofa next to me?”

Most Staffy owners love the way their Staffy needs the close comfort of the family; after all, this type of behavior is why we love Staffies.

In this article, I’ll explain to you the possible five reasons why your Staffy sits on you and if any of the reasons are cause for any serious concern.

NOTE: This page may contain affiliate links, which means Staffy Dog may receive a small commission for anything purchase via these links, at no cost to you. This keeps our tails wagging.

Toffee (our Amstaff mix) sitting on me as usual!

 Why Does My Staffordshire Bull Terrier Sit On Me?

5 Reasons Why Your Staffy Sits On You

  1. Breed Behavior

Some dog breeds are naturally more demonstrative about their love and affection; Staffies are one of those breeds.

It’s always been the case that small “lapdogs” want to get on your lap at every opportunity. Well, just because a dog is medium or even large-sized, it doesn’t mean they can’t have the same amount of feelings for you; or want to show you by climbing on your lap so they can be as close as possible.

If it bothers you that your Staffy wants to sit on you at every opportunity,  you can train him to understand that you need space, and he can sit close-by, just not on you.

  1. Cuddling

I know Staffy owners love to cuddle their dogs; it’s second nature. You somehow feel better when you have your Staffy up close. Well, dogs can feel the same way; cuddling is the way your Staffy can get close and share quality time with you.

For most dogs, physical contact can help them stay calm emotionally, and it’s an excellent way for you to strengthen the bond between you and your Staffy.

  1. Your Staffy Wants To Have Fun

Sometimes your Staffy will sit on you just for fun. They want their bellies rubbing, or they want to play a game, like fetch. Your Staffy intends to engage with you in some light-hearted way. They’re probably just saying, “Hey, look at me, I’m here, let’s play.” Try and get in the light-hearted mood and have some fun with your Staffy.

  1. Dominance

Dominance is a whole different ball game and might be a cause for concern. If your Staffy sits on you and begins to show any sign of aggressive behavior at all, you must put a stop to it immediately.

For example, if your Staffy jumps up and growls at you or another animal or person that comes close, it’s dominant behavior. You must stand up, so he has to get down from your lap, and your Staffy needs to see your displeasure. Never reward or attempt to encourage this kind of behavior.

  1. Security

You’re probably used to your Staffy following you around the house; everywhere you go, your shadow isn’t far behind. It’s understandable from a Staffy’s point of view; you’re the centre of his world; you provide everything he needs in life.

Sitting in your lap is an extension of these emotions. If your Staffy jumps up and sits on you, then the dog knows you can’t go anywhere without them knowing.

Alternatively, your Staffy is your secret service bodyguard. While they’re close by, no harm will come to you. 

Runa (Staffordshire Bull Terrier) sitting on my feet to feel safe when in a new place

How Do Staffies Show Affection?

Staffies are known to be one of the most communicative dogs on the planet. Staffies often show their affection by rolling on their backs so you can give them belly rubs.

What Does it Mean When Your Dog Lays on You?

When your dog lays on you, it could mean they’re telling you while they belong to you, you also belong to them.

Dogs do this for three reasons:

  1. They want to feel secure about where they stand with you.
  2. They are notifying any other dog, you belong to them.
  3. They want to protect you.

Staffies may sit on you for several reasons, but I bet it makes your whole day feel so much better.

Brad Davenport

Brad has spent his entire life surrounded by dogs and has owned all sorts of breeds, including Dachshunds, Great Danes, French Bulldogs and he currently has a little Hasanese called Biscuit. Brad is an experienced dog writer who is obsessed by canine health, care and psychology and has completed several courses on dog care and training.

Top 3 Products for Staffies

Indestructible dog toy
KONG - Jumbler Ball - Interactive Fetch Dog Toy with Tennis Ball (Assorted Colours) - For Medium/Large Dogs
See your dog at night
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Healthy toy for big chewers
Nylabone Extreme Tough Dog Chew Toy Monster Beef Thigh, Cleans Teeth, Beef Flavour, XXL, for Dogs Over 23 kg,package may vary
KONG Jumbler Ball
Light Up Dog Collar
Nylabone Extreme Chew (Chicken Flavour)
Indestructible dog toy
KONG - Jumbler Ball - Interactive Fetch Dog Toy with Tennis Ball (Assorted Colours) - For Medium/Large Dogs
KONG Jumbler Ball
See your dog at night
Light Up Dog Collar Waterproof Rechargeable Flashing LED Dog Collar Light Adjustable for Small Medium Large Dogs Durable Super Bright Glow in the Dark Dog Collars Increase Visibility, Green-M
Light Up Dog Collar
Healthy toy for big chewers
Nylabone Extreme Tough Dog Chew Toy Monster Beef Thigh, Cleans Teeth, Beef Flavour, XXL, for Dogs Over 23 kg,package may vary
Nylabone Extreme Chew (Chicken Flavour)




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