50 Times Sneaky Pets Occupied Their Owner's Spots In Beds

The Association of Pet Dog Trainers told Bored Panda that since dogs don't have a moral compass, it isn't possible for them to "steal" anything, much less their owners' spots. "Dogs will be dogs and they will do what dogs do. As a species that primarily ‘sees' the world through its nose, a spot on the sofa is probably very comforting because it smells of its owner."

A member of the APDT committee pointed out that if an owner doesn't want their dog on the bed or furniture, then they should teach the dog what they do want: "Which is usually for the dog to go to a mat or to his own bed."

The committee member also said there is no need for owners to be 'strict' with their dogs when they are being "kind, fair, and consistent in their training."

If your dog is growling at you or roughly nudging you to get you to move, then there might be a problem. But if your doggo takes your spot when you leave and then moves when you come back, it’s a sign of respect because they’re saving your spot.

Cats and dogs also feel closer to you when they’re in a spot that smells strongly of you.

However, your dog might not respect you as “the leader of the pack” if it constantly takes your favorite spot on the bed or the couch. Are they trying to challenge your authority? Could be.

Or they could be trying to get your attention and expressing their warm and fuzzy feelings for you. Animal emotions are complex and a lot depends on each particular case.

If you don’t want your pet 'stealing' your spot, they have to know that you’re in charge and that you wear the pants in the family.

You can start by teaching them basic commands like “move” (or “please, please, please, you goofball, get out of my bed, I have nowhere else to sleep”). In other words, setting limits is key. Obviously, this works far better with dogs than with cats. What’s more, if your pet has its own cozy place to relax, it won’t be as likely to steal yours.