Expert: Alan J Turner, SATS LL1 - 11/17/2007

Question
We have a male Malinois the vet guessed at 2-3 years old. We have had him for 2 months. Someone has spent a LOT of time with this guy as he is not only housebroken but obeys all commands. I dont know his background as the people we got him from were going to just turn him loose in the desert, so in a way he was rescued.
While not a problem at all, he will not   let me pet him without him having a paw on me, and he wants his paw on top. He wants to be close enough at near all times that he is touching me.
This isnt the first dog Ive ever had, but it is the first one that has had to be this close to me at ALL times. Whats the reason? No complaints, just curious. Thanks

Answer
Dear Greg,
Dogs stay close for several reasons. It could be that he wants to keep "tabs" on you so that he is assured that you are not leaving. Leaning on you is one method he can monitor your movements.

Pawing can be his way of trying to control the situation or just his way of saying hi.

Teach him to shake or high five on cue. This will give him an outlet to practice his paw behavior and will probably  reduce his pawing unless you ask for it. Thanks for the quesiton. Good Luck with yor dog - he sounds awesome!