Lauryn Dell
As dog owners, we often notice strange behaviors in our pets that leave us puzzled. One of the most common, and oddly intimate, behaviors is when your dog locks eyes with you while relieving itself. If you’ve ever wondered, “Why does my dog stare at me when they poop?”, you’re not alone.
This behavior may seem awkward or even humorous, but it actually has roots in deep evolutionary instincts, body language communication, and the unique relationship between dogs and humans.
In this article, animal behaviorists break down the reasons Dogs Stare at You When They Poop and what it says about your dog’s trust, instinct, and emotional state.
1. The Evolutionary Perspective
Dogs are descendants of wolves, who have long relied on pack behavior for survival. In the wild, animals are most vulnerable when they are eating, sleeping, or eliminating.
These are moments when their attention is diverted, and they can’t defend themselves from predators.
When a dog is defecating, it’s in a defenseless state. Eye contact with you during this time is your dog’s way of ensuring that you’re keeping watch.
It’s a survival instinct rooted in their genetic history. Your dog looks to you as their trusted protector an alpha figure, ensuring their safety while they focus on the task at hand.
2. Vulnerability and Pack Dynamics
In pack settings, dogs rely on one another to watch their backs. When a dog stares at you while pooping, it’s a reflection of this same dynamic.
They perceive you as part of their pack or family unit and expect you to return the favor of protection.
According to Dr. Carlo Siracusa, a veterinarian and behaviorist at the University of Pennsylvania, this behavior is largely about trust and awareness.
“The dog trusts that you will protect them during a vulnerable moment,” he explains. “Eye contact reinforces the bond and shows reliance.”
3. Seeking Safety and Reassurance
Dogs also pick up on environmental cues. If your dog senses unfamiliar noises or scents nearby, it might look to you for reassurance. Your presence—and especially your eye contact—can offer comfort.
Your dog wants to know that nothing is threatening them while they are in a compromising position.
This behavior is even more prominent in anxious or high-alert breeds like German Shepherds, Dobermans, and Border Collies.
These dogs have a heightened sense of awareness and may be even more prone to locking eyes with you to feel safe.
4. Learning from Puppyhood
Puppies learn social cues early in life. From the time they’re born, they look to their mothers and, later, their human owners for guidance. House training often includes some degree of supervision.
As a result, dogs may develop the habit of looking at their owners for approval or security during elimination.
When you potty-train a dog, you often reward them for doing their business in the right place. Over time, they associate that act with your attention and presence.
So even as adults, they may continue to glance at you, wondering if they’ve done something correctly.
5. Canine Communication and Bonding
Dogs communicate in a variety of non-verbal ways, and eye contact is a powerful tool in their social behavior. According to Dr. Patricia McConnell, an animal behaviorist and author of The Other End of the Leash, sustained eye contact between a dog and a trusted human can release oxytocin—the same hormone responsible for bonding in humans.
When your dog stares at you, it may be more than just a safety check. It could also be a bonding moment, however awkward it may seem. The stare may simply be your dog’s way of saying, “I trust you.”
6. Do All Dogs Do This?
Not every dog will stare at their owner while pooping, and that’s perfectly normal too. Some dogs prefer privacy, especially those with more independent personalities or less attachment to their humans.
Factors such as breed, upbringing, environment, and personality all play roles in this behavior.
Rescue dogs or dogs that experienced trauma may also show different behaviors when they defecate. In some cases, they may avoid eye contact altogether, which can be a sign of anxiety or insecurity.
What Should You Do When Your Dog Stares at You?
If your dog stares at you while pooping, there’s no need to feel uncomfortable. Here are a few recommended responses:
- Remain calm and neutral: Don’t stare intensely back or react with discomfort.
- Offer a soft reassuring voice if your dog seems nervous.
- Don’t interrupt: Let your dog finish undisturbed.
- Reward calm behavior if your dog is being trained.
The key is to avoid making them feel ashamed or anxious. Remember, this is instinctive behavior, not a conscious decision.
Signs to Watch For: Dogs Stare at You When They Poop
While staring during elimination is usually harmless, there are some red flags to be aware of:
- Straining or discomfort while pooping
- Sudden behavior changes, such as increased anxiety or hiding
- Aggressive guarding during elimination
- Refusal to poop in regular places
These could indicate underlying medical or behavioral issues. If you notice any of these signs, consult your veterinarian or a certified animal behaviorist.
Conclusion: Dogs Stare at You When They Poop
The next time your dogs stare at You When They Poop in the yard, remember, it’s not weird. It’s instinct. Your dog is seeking reassurance, protection, and possibly an emotional connection.
Animal behaviorists agree that this behavior is rooted in survival instincts and social bonding.
Rather than turning away or feeling uncomfortable, take it as a sign of trust. In the canine world, eye contact during vulnerable moments means your dog sees you as someone they can rely on.
Embrace that bond, it’s part of what makes the human-dog relationship so unique and special.
FAQs
Yes, it’s completely normal. This behavior stems from instinct and trust. Your dog is checking in with you to feel safe during a vulnerable moment.
You don’t need to return the stare. Just stay calm and be present. Avoid making the moment uncomfortable for your pet.
Many puppies develop this behavior during potty training. They often look to their owners for reassurance and guidance.
In some cases, especially if paired with other nervous behaviors, it can signal anxiety. If your dog seems distressed or afraid, consult a professional.
Create a consistent routine, choose quiet locations, and avoid rushing them. Positive reinforcement also helps build confidence.
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