Why Does My Dog Follow Me Into the Bathroom?

Why Does My Dog Follow Me Into the Bathroom?

Why Does My Dog Follow Me to the Bathroom?

Your dog is the furry companion you can always count on to be by your side, even when you don’t need it … like when you’re using the bathroom! While it’s true we often attend their potty breaks, do they really have to attend ours? If you’ve been wondering, “Why does my dog follow me?” we’ve got answers.

Animal Instinct

If your dog follows you into the bathroom, it’s likely a result of their animal instinct and pack mentality. Canines who do this are referred to as “Velcro dogs,” due to their desire to be attached to your side. They may follow you around, even to the bathroom, to protect a part of their pack. Without you in sight while you’re home, they may feel a sense of vulnerability. Learn the secrets to dog bathing success! Find out how often to bathe your pup.

Positive Reinforcement

It could also be related to positive reinforcement. “If every time you are with your dog, he gets affection or treats, he’s likely to [follow you around] more often,” says Dr. Rachel Barrack, a licensed veterinarian certified in both veterinary acupuncture and Chinese herbology with Animal Acupuncture in New York City.

Curiosity

Following you to the bathroom could even simply be your dog’s curiosity. “Look at it from the dog’s point of view,” says Erin Kramer, a professional certified dog trainer and owner of Tug Dogs in Northern California. “You might think you’re the cool one, but the person your dog is attached to is the road to everything wonderful and magical. The focus is on that person because of what they give access to.”

Whether because they’re nervous or curious, your bathroom is a part of your dog’s home, and as such, monitoring your whereabouts within these boundaries comes second nature to them. Privacy isn’t an issue for your dog, but they are always concerned about your safety.

If your pet does have an accident in your home, you’ll want to check out the video below for tips on how to clean up pet stains.

Why does my dog follow me in the bathroom?

Many dogs like to follow their owners everywhere, including the bathroom, with some going as far as to scratch at the door while we're using the toilet! In general, dogs follow us because they are social animals and enjoy human company.

Why does my dog guard me in the bathroom?

This unconditional devotion can mean that they need to be there in order to protect you from outside threats (not like there is any likelihood of someone lurking in the bathroom, but hey, anything can happen). To them, guarding you is an extension of their pack mentality.

Why does my dog want to come into the toilet with me?

You are your dog's closet companion, and being close to you means food, safety, and happiness. On the flip side, being separated from you may mean anxiety or distress. You're their pack now—and for some dogs, that means not letting anything, not even the pesky bathroom door, come between you.

Why do dogs watch you when they go to the bathroom?

So when you let your fuzzy pal out the backdoor for a bathroom break and they begin to stare straight through you, remember that it is for their own safety. As the dog parent, they are looking to you to watch their back and ensure nothing attacks or hurts them during their moment of extreme vulnerability.