When dogs are going to the bathroom, they often stare intently at us, and scientists have discovered the reason behind this behavior.
This action does not mean that your dog is angry or about to attack someone; it is simply a normal reflex.
Dogs have coexisted with humans for centuries, and over time, they have developed various signals to interpret human emotions by analyzing voice tones, facial expressions, and their owner’s scent.
In fact, dogs observe humans quite a bit; they even quietly sneak peeks at us (Photo credit: Science ABC).
Essentially, they are trying to understand your feelings.
Desire to Communicate
Dogs cannot speak, but among their own kind, they can communicate with other dogs.
However, it’s different when it comes to humans. Fortunately, they have learned a few “tricks” after centuries of living with us.
For example, when dogs are hungry, they will look at us intently, often sitting in the spot where you feed them, or in the kitchen.
Similarly, when they want their owner’s attention, they will perform cute actions like nudging you with their nose.
Stephanie Gibeault, a professional dog trainer, states: “If you train your dog and reward it with praise or treats, it may stare at you whenever it completes tasks you ask, because it eagerly anticipates your praise or reward.”
Defensive Movement
Dogs are social creatures, and their ancestors, wolves, naturally lived in packs.
Modern dogs still have that mentality. For them, the owner or family members are part of their pack.
Why is this important?
Because being in a pack gives dogs a sense of security.
Animals living together, whether in large or small groups, benefit from having some members designated to watch for dangers.
This helps keep them safe and provides all pack members with a higher chance of survival.
This is especially useful in dangerous situations when some animals in the group may become complacent.
For example, most ambush predators like crocodiles or tigers lie in wait for prey when they least expect to be attacked by others.
In both cases, there are always some members of the pack keeping an eye out for hidden predators nearby.
The same concept applies to modern dogs.
Dr. Jo Anna Pendergrass, a veterinarian at the online pet health care agency PetMD based in the U.S., agrees that when dogs need to go to the bathroom, whether indoors or outdoors, they are acutely aware that they are in a vulnerable position and fundamentally trust their owner to watch for potential dangers in their surroundings.
That’s why they will stare at you.
