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Do you have a pet dog? If so, you’ve probably noticed that when your dog relieves itself, it stares at you intently. Do you know why it does that?
An evolutionary remnant
When your dog gets into the proper squat, it starts staring at you. Not all dogs do it, but most do. Scientists believe these long looks are further evidence of evolution at work. Many experts agree that dogs feel vulnerable while relieving themselves and want to make sure you’re keeping an eye on them.
“The position for relieving oneself is vulnerable for the dog. This feeling of vulnerability remains from its wild ancestors, the wolves, who in the wild always had to look out for themselves. Dogs use this to reassure themselves that you’ve got their back while they are in this uncertain position,” says Mary Friedmanová, a dog behavior expert, in an interview with The Dodo.
Other expert theories
Veterinarian Dr. Kathryn Primmová wrote in a blog post for I Heart Dogs: “If your dog watches you at these moments, it means it relies on you to give a signal via body language in case of danger. Another reason may be that it wants you to defend it if necessary.”
How to make your dog feel safe
Keep in mind that your dog feels defenseless while relieving itself. Therefore, remain calm and avoid making any sudden or jerky movements, as it could interpret them as danger signals.
Every dog is different
Both Friedmanová and Primmová mention, in addition to the feeling of vulnerability, other reasons for this staring. Some dogs may be asking you for a treat this way, others for approval of a suitable spot to relieve themselves, and others for a bit of privacy.
So try to understand your pet and your relationship may improve even more.
