It sounds to me that he senses your anxiety and is taking extra care to protect you.

When Dick is gone for several days visiting his sister, my Max will velcro himself to me to protect me. He will even put himself between me and the other dogs in an effort to keep me safe. He doesn't know he's a little dog. I keep telling him I'm OK, but he's feels better knowing he's taking care of me.

Your Max sounds like a great dog!!