Sterling Speaks: A Doggy Bathroom Origin Story

Sterling: Woof, Dad! Morning! Are you finally ready to tell the world our story?

Alain: Good morning, Sterling. I sure am.

Sterling: Can we start with a snack? A few more blueberries, maybe?

Alain: You've already had your morning fruit. Let’s save the treats for after the interview, alright?

Sterling: Fine. But you owe me.

Alain: Sterling… be a good boy.

Sterling: Remember when I was just 11 weeks old and you brought me home? You took one look at me, brought me outside in the middle of a snowstorm—minus 20!—and expected me to pee?

Alain: I do. I could barely get you past the front stoop. You were outraged.

Sterling: I was! But it led to something amazing—we created a better way. Together.

Alain: We sure did. I never imagined my career would shift from interior design to pet innovation. But here we are.

Sterling: You're welcome, by the way.

Alain: Did I say thank you?

Sterling: Not yet. But go on—tell everyone what the Doggy Bathroom is.

Alain: The Doggy Bathroom is an indoor potty system—think of it like a litter box, but made just for small dogs. It’s enclosed, discreet, and designed to work for dogs who squat or lift their leg. Inside, there’s space for vertical and horizontal pee pads, so it works naturally with your instincts. It gives dogs independence, and their humans a whole lot more convenience.

Sterling: Like having our own ensuite! Very chic.

Alain: Exactly. And since launching in 2019, we’ve sold over 10,000 units across North America. Now, we’re heading to Europe. This fall, the Doggy Bathroom—and a new artist edition—will be making its debut at Maison & Objet in Paris.

Sterling: Paris! Still bitter I wasn’t invited.

Alain: I’ll bring you back a treat. Maybe a croissant?

Sterling: Deal. Dad, you’ve always been a designer. How did that play into creating… well, a fancy place for dogs to pee?

Alain: I’ve always believed that the best design solves a real problem. And I love taking something seen as unattractive—like cleaning up after your dog—and reimagining it as something beautiful and functional. That’s what excited me most. Making a dog litter box that was practical, discreet, and dare I say… stylish.

Sterling: And now look—we’re in homes, cottages, condos, and even hotels.

Alain: Yes! We recently launched a pilot with Kimpton Saint George in Toronto. It’s amazing to see the Doggy Bathroom become a staple in hospitality. Dogs are family, and more hotels are recognizing that.

Sterling: It’s perfect for travel. And honestly, way better than pee pads on the floor. Right?

Alain: Way better. I remember replacing our floors because of someone’s “accidents.” Sound familiar?

Sterling: Allegedly.

Alain: The design is simple and recognizable for dogs. Clients often buy more than one—some for upstairs, downstairs, even secondary homes. And for puppies, the Doggy Bathroom helps establish good habits from the start. It supports their natural routine and keeps their space hygienic and contained.

Sterling: Speaking of size… what about my little friends?

Alain: Great point. In October, we launched the Doggy Bathroom Mini, made specifically for dogs under 10 pounds. We pre-sold over 700 units and raised more than $100,000. Today, we hold eight patents, including our newest utility patent in the U.S. Demand continues to grow—from Australia to Asia and beyond.

Sterling: That’s pawsome! But can we talk about the artist edition now? Please?

Alain: Yes, let’s. I’ve always had a deep appreciation for art. This new limited edition combines function with creativity, drawing inspiration from artists like Keith Haring. It's a joyful, expressive take on our original design—something I’m really proud of. It’s being unveiled in Paris and I can’t wait to share it with the world.

Sterling: Even if I’m not going. Again. (Just saying.)

Alain: The Doggy Bathroom has come a long way—from a cut-up bin in my living room to a patented product changing the way people live with dogs. And it all started with you.

Sterling: Thanks, Dad. Now—can we go have that coffee? You promised.

Alain: Absolutely. Let’s go!