You take your dog outside for a bathroom break. He sniffs around, finds the perfect spot, pops a squat, and then does something surprisingly awkward.
Your dog stares at you while he poops.
It’s always a full-on stare that lasts through the entire process.
My dog Henry does this with me, and I’ll admit it feels a little weird.
It can even turn you seven shades of red and have you looking anywhere else when that awkward stare happens at the dog park.
But there are actually some interesting reasons behind the behavior.
Your Dog Feels Vulnerable
Your dog is put in a vulnerable position when they poop.
Coyotes and wolves are most at risk when they can’t respond quickly.
Yes, I know your dog has 20 toys, 6 beds, and has perfectly trained you. But these instincts can’t be dismissed simply when they become our buddies.
Your dog may look at you while doing his business for protection.
Their intense stare translates to:
- I’ve got my paws full for a few seconds.
- Watch out for danger.
- You cover my back, and I’ll cover yours.
It’s a side effect of becoming a trusted member of your dog’s pack.
They Trust You
A lot of dog behavior boils down to trust. This odd behavior definitely falls into this category.
Dogs lock eyes with people they trust and feel safe around.
Research suggests that friendly eye contact between dogs and their humans helps strengthen their bond.
When your dog locks eyes with you while pooping, it may simply mean they like knowing you’re nearby.
While it’s a bit weird, it’s actually a huge compliment.
Your Dog May Be Waiting For Feedback
Dogs are experts at reading human reactions and associating patterns.
Your dog may recognize that a treat, praise, or more sniff walking always follows a potty squat.
That stare may be a check-in to see what’s next on the agenda.
Your dog might be looking for the answers to such things as:
- Do I get a treat?
- Are we doing more exploring?
- Am I a good boy?
Dogs are great investigators. They are always collecting and analyzing the information they get from us, even if that is during a potty break.
Some Dogs Simply Like Keeping Tabs On You
Many dogs want to know where their favorite human is at all times.
Companion breed dogs like Golden Retrievers, Papillons, and Dachshunds tend to build strong bonds with their people.
That stare may simply be your dog making sure you’re still in sight and haven’t wandered off to the next adventure.
When The Poop Stare Could Be A Concern
Honestly, eye contact during a potty break is pretty normal.
But there can be a few instances when you’ll want to talk to your vet.
- Your dog is anxious or distressed while pooping
- Straining frequently, with not much result
- Cries, whining, or sighs of pain
- Changes in what is normal for your dog’s bathroom habits.
My Henry sometimes gives me an extra-intense stare when something doesn’t feel quite right. If your dog’s bathroom habits suddenly change or they seem uncomfortable, it’s worth checking in with your veterinarian.
The Bottom Line On The Poop Stare
If you’ve ever wondered why dogs stare at you while they poop, the answer is usually pretty simple. Your dog feels vulnerable, trusts you, and wants to make sure you’re still nearby.
The next time your dog locks eyes with you while pooping, don’t cringe.
You’re part of your dog’s trusted pack, and the stare is part of it. Take it as a huge compliment.
Fun Dog Fact: Researchers have discovered that dogs may be sensitive to Earth’s magnetic field. Studies found that many dogs prefer to face north or south when pooping. Some researchers believe dogs may be sensitive to Earth’s magnetic field when choosing the perfect bathroom position.
