11.04.2025

The reason why your dog goes to the bathroom with you and sits next to you is more interesting than you think

By Vitia

Have you ever wondered why your dog follows you to the bathroom and sits next to you while you’re there? This behavior may seem strange and even uncomfortable to some, but in reality, it is a sign of the deep connection and loyalty that our dogs have with us.

Although it may seem like a curious behavior, the reasons behind it are more interesting and complex than you might imagine. In this article, we’ll explore why your dog does this and other behaviors that show their devotion and affection toward you.

The main reason: Protection and companionship

Dogs are social animals by nature and have a strong protective instinct towards the members of their “pack”, which in this case, is us, their owners. When your dog follows you to the bathroom and sits next to you, he is acting on these instincts. Here are some more detailed reasons for this behavior:

1. Protection and surveillance

For your dog, the bathroom is a place where you might be in a vulnerable position. Sitting next to you is their way of protecting you and making sure you’re safe. This protective behavior is reminiscent of their wolf ancestors, who also cared for their pack while resting or in vulnerable situations.

2. Companionship and affection

Dogs form strong emotional bonds with their owners and enjoy their company at all times. Following you to the bathroom and sitting next to you is a way for them to stay close to you and show their affection. Dogs see their owners as leaders and companions, and prefer to be around them whenever possible.

3. Separation anxiety

Some dogs may develop separation anxiety when their owners are not around. This anxiety can lead them to follow their owners everywhere, including the bathroom. Being with you at all times gives them a sense of security and calm.

4. Routine and habits

Dogs are routine animals and like to follow a predictable schedule. If your dog has learned that following you to the bathroom is part of his daily routine, he will continue to do it out of habit. For them, it’s a normal activity and part of their daily interaction with you.

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Other behaviors of our dogs

In addition to following us to the bathroom, dogs display a variety of behaviors that may seem strange but have logical explanations based on their nature and relationship to humans. Here are some common behaviors and their possible explanations:

1. Sleep in your bed

Many dogs prefer to sleep in their owners’ bed rather than in their own bed. This can be due to a number of reasons, including seeking warmth, comfort, and emotional closeness. Sleeping next to you provides them with a sense of security and strengthens the bond between you.

2. Bring toys or gifts

When your dog brings you his toys or even foreign objects like shoes or clothes, he is showing his desire to play and share with you. This behavior can also be an attempt to get your attention and spend time together.

3. Licking your face and hands

Licking is a common way in which dogs show affection and submission. By licking your face and hands, your dog is showing his love and respect for you. This behavior can also be a way to explore and learn more about yourself through their sense of taste.

4. Spin in circles before bed

This instinctive behavior comes from their wild ancestors, who would spin in circles to crush the grass and create a comfortable place to sleep. Although they now have comfortable beds, dogs continue this behavior instinctively.

5. Scratch the floor

Some dogs scratch the floor before going to bed or after they relieve themselves. This behavior may be related to their instincts to mark territory and create a safe area to rest.

In short, our dogs’ behaviors, while sometimes seem strange, have deep roots in their instincts and their relationship with us. Understanding these behaviors helps us to further appreciate the loyalty and love that our four-legged friends give us each day.