In their wolf ancestors,
is considered threatening and rude. Some dogs still retain that attitude. That’s why you should never stare down strange dogs or hold dogs still to stare into their eyes. If a dog gives you a hard stare, with unblinking eyes and a stiff posture, back away and don’t make eye contact.
It’s a funny feeling to realize you’re being watched. Even stranger is to discover that your own dog is gazing at you while you use the restroom, eat breakfast, or relax in bed reading. There are a variety of reasons why your dog stares at you, and we broke them down so you’ll know what’s up with your pup the next time you lock eyes across the room, even though being stared at by a dog may be less unsettling than being stared at by a person.
What Happens When You Stare at a Dog
Dogs will likely move away from a threat. When someone is staring at them, they will make an effort to avoid the person. Some dogs will:
If this occurs, the person who unintentionally caught the dog’s attention should look away from the anxious dog. A dog learns that a person is unpredictable and scary through intimidation. It’s difficult to learn from someone who is intimidating, so forcing a dog to do so is unfair. Never forget that both in the human and canine worlds, staring is considered rude. .
Making Eye Contact With Your Dog vs. Staring at Your Dog
Several times a day, dogs and their owners will make eye contact. It’s normal and natural behavior. When it’s time for dinner, when there are treats nearby, or when the doorbell rings, many dogs will look at their owners. When calling their dog over for a quick game of tug, when they get home from work, or when they’re unwinding on the couch at night, some pet owners will look directly into their dog’s face.
This type of eye contact is fleeting. You and your dog exchange glances before averting your eyes to attend to something else. Eye contact used in politeness lasts for one to two seconds and flows with other positive body language.
Staring is different, and considered rude to dogs. A dog sees a human staring into another dog’s eyes as a threat. Consider this: If someone were to stare at you, you might wonder why they were doing so or believe they were upset. When people stare, their bodies remain motionless with their arms still, but they move away while keeping their heads following the dog or person they are focusing on. This body position terrifies dogs as well as you.
How do I show my dog I am the Alpha?
How Do I Show My Dog I’m the Alpha?
FAQ
What happens if you stare a dog in the eyes?
If you stare at a dog, he won’t learn that you’re in charge; instead, he’ll think you’re being rude. 90% of dogs will disengage from someone staring at them because they don’t want any trouble, but the remaining 10% will probably engage. Remember, dogs don’t need to be dominated. Dogs need someone to positively teach them polite manners instead.
Should I look at my dog in the eye?
The proper eye contact can help you and your dog bond, establish trust, and strengthen your relationship. Dog eye contact can also reveal information about your dog’s personality, emotions, and needs.
Do dogs dislike eye contact with humans?