I went through a bit of this with Angus. He still prefers me if he is tired or upset, but these days it's not really an issue.

And on the dummy thing, what's the big deal. If she likes it and it settles her then don't worry too much. Mason was about 3 when his dummies kept getting "lost" till there was no more to be found. I think it's much better than thumb sucking which I have with Angus. I hope he grows out of that one soon enough.