Selective Presence Disorder

INTRO

So you follow me to the bathroom…
but disappear when I’m emotionally spiraling?
Fascinating boundaries.

SESSION NOTE

Attachment inconsistency detected.

THE SESSION

You’re everywhere when it’s easy.
Kitchen? There. Couch? There. Bathroom? Unfortunately… there.

But the second something feels big—loud noise, new place, or me getting overwhelmed—you’re suddenly… less available.
And I notice.

From your side, it feels like, “They’re fine, they’ll get over it.”
From mine, it feels like, “Wait… this is when I needed you.”

Dogs build safety through consistency. Not just proximity when things are calm, but presence when things feel uncertain.
If you show up for the easy moments and fade during the hard ones, it creates confusion.

So now I cling when you move, because I don’t trust when you’ll stay.
And I panic when you leave, because I don’t feel anchored when things shift.

You didn’t mean to teach this.
But your dog is learning, “I’m not sure when I’m supported… so I’ll just stay close all the time.”

And yes, that’s why I follow you like a tiny emotional support shadow.
You trained me well.

WHAT YOUR DOG IS REALLY SAYING

“I don’t just want you near me… I want to feel safe with you when it matters.”

COZYMD RATING

Stress Level: 8/10

COZYMD TREATMENT PLAN

Start showing up during the small stress moments, not just the calm ones. Sit with your dog, lower your energy, and let them settle with you instead of alone. Create predictable comfort—same tone, same presence, same calm response. Adding something steady like a cozy bed or a calming chew during these moments can help your dog associate stress with safety instead of panic.

CLOSING

Clingy isn’t the problem… it’s just what insecurity looks like in a small body.