One of the best things about having a dog is how they want to follow you everywhere. Of course, that means they want to follow you everywhere. Any Dog Owner will know the feeling: when nature calls, your pooch follows you straight into the bathroom. Sometimes they’re hot on your heels; other times they wait until you’re closing the door before they barge after you. If they hold any regard your privacy, they veil it behind a smile that says “Hey, wait for me!”
If you’ve ever wondered why your dog follows you to the toilet, you’re not alone. In this post, we explore the reasons why your dog keeps you company during your most private moments!
They want to get to know you better…by knowing what leaves you
Have you ever noticed that your pup will acquaint themselves with other pups by sniffing their bottoms? Or that while you try to avoid stepping on dog droppings, your pooch will often stop to inspect them? That’s because dogs get to know other creatures by examining their leavings. While you might see your bathroom trips as “alone time”, your furry friend might see them as a bonding experience.
They’re standing guard
Most animals are at their most vulnerable when they’re relieving themselves. Your dog knows this – and they worry about you when you pee. If you’ve had your pooch for a while, they’ve probably deduced what you do in the bathroom. By accompanying you to the toilet, they may believe they’re standing watch for you during a moment of exposure. Bless them.
They don’t grasp the concept of being alone
At a basic Darwinian level, dogs are not solitary creatures. When left to their own natural devices, they hunt, roam, sleep, and live as part of a pack. What’s more, they assume you do as well. From their point of view, “alone time” is a concept that doesn’t serve either one of you. When they follow you into the restroom, they believe they’re keeping you company. While you’re thinking, “It’s weird to pee in front of my pet”, they’re thinking “United, we’re stronger – even while peeing!”
So what can you do to keep them out?
For starters, you may need to accept that your pup will at least sit by the bathroom door until you finish. That way, they’ll still have an idea of where you are in the house, which will put them at ease. Now, all you need is something to distract them. Leaving them with their favourite toy can be an option. However, if that isn’t enough to occupy them, try leaving a treat a few feet from the bathroom door. Not only will this distract them, it will also reward them for giving you space in the bathroom.
