Why Does My Dog Follow Me Into the Bathroom?
Your canine companion can sometimes feel like an extra shadow with how much they may follow you around. But when Fido follows you into the restroom, you may wonder if there’s a reason behind it. Some pet owners may just think it’s because our pups love to be around us, but there’s a bit more to it than that. Here are some possible answers to why your four-legged friend keeps walking into the bathroom with you.
You Pup is Being Social and Wants Companionship
If you’ve had your dog since they were a tiny puppy, then they may just be following you because they are so used to being around you always. During the first few weeks of your dog’s life, they may imprint on you and recognize you as their parental figure, creating a bonded and trusting relationship where they continuously want to be by your side. Even older dogs can have this mentality; if you have shown and proved to your canine companion that you are the most trustworthy being in their life, they’ll feel safe and comforted by being around you as much as possible. Dog’s are also pack animals by nature, meaning they are used to traveling together. Even though your domestic dog may have never been in a pack, it’s still an instinctual habit hardwired into their brain. If they see you as their pack leader, they’re going to want to follow your lead.
It Could be Fido’s Breed
Certain breeds are more inclined to follow you around than others due to breed traits they are born with. Herding breeds, such as Border Collies and Shepards are always trying to round up their family. Other breeds that are known for being loyal natural protectors, like Doberman Pinschers and Boxers, may be following you to keep an eye out for any danger that may cross your path. As well, sporting breeds such as Labrador Retrievers and pointers may just want to stick with you because they enjoy your company.
Curiosity Encouraged the Dog
Your furry friend is naturally a very curious animal. When you enter, leave, or move around your house your dog may be wondering what you’re up to. They may think you’re getting them a treat, getting a toy for them to play with, or doing something else fun they want to be a part of. When you walk to the bathroom, Fido may just want to check out what’s going on. Your pup may be wondering why you’re sitting on such a funny looking seat that is filled with water (that they can’t drink out of) and why it makes such a loud noise when you get off it.
Are You Reinforcing This Behavior?
Try and think of how you treat your pup when they follow you into the bathroom. Do you pet, praise, or smile at them? If you’re giving your dog attention when they follow you into the restroom, they may just start to associate that room with attention and want to follow you in there every chance they get to receive that extra love and care. If you don’t mind your pooch in the bathro0m with you, then this won’t be a problem. But if it’s a habit, you’re trying to break, simply reward the opposite behavior. Train your dog to wait downstairs and reward them when they do.
Your Furry Friend May Be Anxious
It’s not abnormal or unhealthy for your doggo to want to be around you, protecting your, and receiving your love and affection. But if you have a canine who cries when you close them out of the bathroom or is destructive when you’re apart, they may be dealing with separation anxiety. If you think your furry friend may be suffering from this, you should consult your vet. The last thing you want is your pup suffering without you knowing how to help them.
As long as your dog isn’t showing any inappropriate behavior when you don’t let them into the bathroom with you, their actions and intentions to follow you are harmless. But if you’re tired of having a canine audience there’s nothing wrong with teaching your pup to stop following you into the bathroom.