Why Does My Dog Look at Me When It Poops?

There are many theories floating around about why a dog stares intensely at us while relieving itself, though over time, various studies on this phenomenon have ruled out many of them.

At SoyUnPerro, we want to show you the strongest theories today explaining why your dog won't take its eyes off you during that delicate moment.

Pooping Makes Them Vulnerable

When a dog takes the classic, well-known position to defecate, it becomes very vulnerable, meaning any other dog, person, or animal could attack it during that particular moment.

That's why your dog watches you while relieving itself — it's looking for a knowing glance from you that gives it security, knowing you're there in case it needs your help.

Today it's rare for a dog to attack another dog while it's pooping, but it wasn't so rare in the past when dogs lived in packs. That's why it's believed to be a primal instinct seeking protection from the alpha male, the pack leader — that is, you.

So if your dog gives you a look while in that curious position, don't feel embarrassed to look back. Hold its gaze so it feels protected.

Asking Permission With Its Eyes: "Is It Okay Here?"

Since puppyhood, we start training them to relieve themselves outside, giving them a reward when they do and mistakenly scolding them when they slip up at home.

And we say mistakenly, because you shouldn't scold a dog for going at home — you should simply ignore it and use positive reinforcement when it does the right thing.

That's why even as full adults, dogs keep giving us a look while doing their business outside, asking for permission in their own way. Obviously, they don't wait for us to give consent, but that glance would stop if we scolded them (don't do it).

Asking for Their Reward

We might think our dog has no memory, or that it only remembers what interests it... well, food is every dog in the world's weak spot — they love it.

When we teach them to pee and poop outside, usually as puppies, it's common to give them a treat when they do it right, which is a great way for them to learn.

That's why, even as adults, they use that glance to let us know they're doing their business outside and want their reward. Years can go by without a treat, but they'll keep trying, just in case.