Why Does My Dog Sit Next to Me on the Toilet– Do you know that over 70% of dog owners know their dogs follow them to the bathroom often? This may appear strange, but it is expected of dogs to do so. They consider you as part of their family and would love to be around you, even when you are in the washroom.
This behavior, often referred to as ‘Velcro dog,’ demonstrates the animal’s desire for attention or a feeling of protection. Perhaps, when you are not around, they may feel scared or even worried. This can lead them to find you, even in areas like the bathroom. It is common for some dogs to develop dog separation anxiety which makes them follow their owners around.
Key Takeaways
- Dogs are pack animals and look at their human family as a pack therefore the need to be around the owner most of the time.
- It is noteworthy that some dog breeds can become attached to their owners or develop separation anxiety, which leads to their following the owner into the bathroom.
- Behavior modification through training and conditioning may also be applied to minimize the behavior in question, but in severe cases, it should be discussed with a vet.
- It may signify an underlying issue with the older dog or an older dog that previously had no health complications but is now experiencing changes in terms of health or mental ability.
- Newly adopted dogs may shadow their owners as they adapt to a new environment and establish new schedules or feeding times.
Pack Mentality and Animal Instinct
Velcro Dogs and Separation Anxiety
Dogs are pack animals and look at their owners as being part of their pack formation. This pack mentality makes them want to be near their pack leader and that is where you come in as the pack leader. This strong desire is known as the “Velcro dog” behavior.
Dog breeds which are categorized under the Working or Herding groups are typically very attached. This is due to their fair past with human beings. Offering them treats or affection especially in their presence also makes them more clingy.
To other dogs, being very attached is because of the anxiety that arises from the act of separation. A dog with this issue gets anxious when alone or when their owner is out of sight. They may even stalk you to the bathroom, which is something that people never like to experience.
Before we proceed, it is crucial to understand the difference between a Velcro dog and a dog with separation anxiety. The latter might require the assistance of a veterinarian and some training as well.
| Characteristic | Velcro Dog | Dog with Separation Anxiety |
| Attachment Level | High, but not to the point of panic | Extremely high, with panic when separated |
| Behavior When Alone | May feel some discomfort, but can often settle down | Destructive, noisy, and highly distressed |
| Potential Causes | Breed, positive reinforcement, pack mentality | Trauma, health issues, genetic predisposition |
Knowledge of the pack mentality and behaviors assists in cases of “Velcro dog” or separation anxiety. Providing them with sufficient attention, independence, and training makes them feel confident and well-adjusted. In this way, they will have a familiar connection with you, their alpha pack leader symbol.
Why does my dog sit next to me on the toilet
If your dog is following you to the bathroom, it is an indication that both of you have a good relationship. Dogs also form this perception where the human family is seen as their pack. They want to be near their owners, even if the owner is getting intimate with someone else.
Dogs are naturally curious. There are many intriguing smells and sounds in the bathroom. They themselves might just desire to sit back, relax and observe what you are up to. They also added that some dogs develop a condition that manifests through separation anxiety.
These dogs may not even leave you alone and may follow you to the bathroom. That is how they show their affection towards you. If your dogs only have them pee and poo without any issues, it is simply characteristic of the dog in question. They can be taught how to feel safe and content. This way, they would not suspect that they are part of your family.
It is crucial to learn more about your dog to have a good relationship with your pet. It helps one to meet the needs of the people they are interacting with because one understands why they behave in a particular way. In this way, they will be assured that they are loved, secure, and content with you.
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Why Does My Dog Sit Next to Me on the Toilet– Conclusion
There are many reasons why your dog would like to sit next to you on the toilet: They are known to be very defensive of their packs and they are full of animal instincts. They might also be curious or want your company.
However, dogs are social animals and therefore, follow their masters out of their pack related instincts. Researches indicate that they frequently stay closer to the other members of their pack. This proves their loyalty to their family.
Some dog may follow you because they suffer from separation anxiety. This can happen especially if they received some sort of treatment, including a frightening or a joyful one, during their childhood. If this is the case, getting help from a dog trainer could make them feel safer in your absence.
Why Does My Dog Sit Next to Me on the Toilet- FAQs
Why does my dog sit next to me on the toilet?
Your dog is a social animal and wants to be in your ‘pack’ and remain close to you. This is a very typical behavior for dogs. They may accompany you to the washroom to guard their area or territory, or simply because they like your company.
What is the reason behind my dog's bathroom habit?
The best dog associates you as his pack leader. They naturally want to stay near you. It may be because they like your company or they are interested in what you are doing.
This is an indication that some dogs might feel anxious especially when they are not close to their masters. This can make them follow you everywhere from the kitchen to even the washroom.
Is my dog's bathroom habit normal?
It is common for dogs to follow the owner to the bathroom, especially if they are a puppy. They know it as their area and wish to observe you. In the same way, even when they are out of privacy, they are concerned about your safety.
So long as they are not being problematic, it is just another facet of their personality and your relationship.
