This is a question that we often get from sitter and owners who work with Rover. Help the community out by answering them in our forum!
If a dog sits on or leans against you it is telling everyone that she or he claimed you. So basically it's telling everyone that you belong to them and nobody else should claim you
I have a Bichon that either sits against me if I'm laying down or burrows. He does this constantly. I'm a little concerned about the burrowing.
It can depend on the dog! Like Gwendolyn said, they can do it to show affection and to let others' know that you're theirs. Other dogs may use this as a way to comfort themselves. My dog is a rescue, so whenever she feels unsafe (she's afraid of men), she runs to me and sits in my lap or leans on me. She's a medium sized dog, so she's definitely not lap dog sized, but I love being the person she trusts enough that she comes to me for comfort and to feel safe.
Your dog may sit on you for affection, dominance, protection or it may even be because it's the most comfortable spot in the house! !
Affection:😍 Your dog may be simply happy to see you, for dogs in a pack it's a nice way to spend time together. Acceptance of their pack member.
Dominance : 😠 Jumping on your lap and pawing at your legs. Your dog may try to claim a certain chair or spot. Snapping,or growling when you try to move him.
Protection :💖 For some, as he sits on your lap or your feet he rubs some of his scent on you. You may notice fur on your nice pair of pants. But other dogs will pick up on his scent. Your pet is claiming you as his owner even when he can't go with you.
This is either a form of dominance and/or a need for attention. Dogs want to be surrounded by their "pack" - allow them to sit next to you and pet them for comfort. Do not show aggression, but let them know that you are the dominant of the household by giving them treats for sitting NEXT to you. ONLY if they show you aggression after doing so, gently flip them on their backs. Keep them there, rub their bellies - it will all work out.
Your dog may sit on you for reassurance. They like to feel our heartbeat and breathing. Also for warmth.
A dog sitting or leaning on your is a show of trust and ownership/protection. This is your dogs way of letting you know they are comfortable with you, while letting everyone else know that you are their human. It also depends on the breed - Great Danes are known for sitting on everyone!