Why does my dog stare at me while pooping?

Okay so this has been happening since Bento was a puppy and I still find it a little awkward. He locks eyes with me mid-squat like he's waiting for a response. I always assumed it was a weird quirk but someone at the dog park mentioned it could be about vulnerability, like they feel exposed and want to make sure you're watching out for them.

That actually makes a lot of sense to me? Wild that something so goofy has a real explanation behind it.

I've also read it might just be learned behavior, like if you've ever made eye contact back and smiled or said something to them, you've basically reinforced it. Which... guilty.

Anyway it doesn't bother me, I just feel like I should say something meaningful when it happens and I never know what to do with my face.

Does yours do this too, and have you ever tried NOT looking back to see if it changes anything?