Written by: By Stephanie Gibeault, MSc, CPDT

• Dogs have several reasons for staring at their owners, like to communicate with and understand us.
• Some dogs stare to manipulate owners, as in with begging for food or asking to be let outside.
• Training and dog sports are good ways to turn focused staring behavior into a positive experience.

Have you ever felt your dog’s eyes following you, like they’re watching your every move? Maybe your dog stares at you while enjoying a chew toy or bone. Or, perhaps you enjoy sitting with your dog and gazing into each other’s eyes. Whatever the scenario, dogs spend a great deal of time staring at humans. And many dog owners spend a great deal of time wondering why.

Dogs Are Reading Us

More than almost any other animal on earth, dogs are in tune with humans. They sense our moods, follow our pointing gestures, and read us for information about what’s going to happen next. That means they stare at us a lot to gain knowledge about their environment. Essentially, they are waiting for us to do something that will impact them.

Dogs Are Trying to Tell Us Something

Staring also occurs when your dog is trying to get your attention or tell you something. For example, if it’s time for a potty break, your dog might sit by the door and gawk at you. Or, if your dog is hungry and you’re eating, staring can indicate a desire for you to share your food. It’s the canine equivalent of a tap on the shoulder.

Dogs Are Telling Us How They Feel

Your pup also uses eye contact to express emotions, both positive and negative. In their wolf ancestors, staring 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. You might see this in your own dog when there is a bone or other valued treat at stake.

Dogs and Humans Can Benefit from Staring

Most dog staring is a combination of affection and attention. While it may make you uncomfortable, your dog is most likely fascinated by you. So rather than discouraging that human-centric focus, you can make it work for both of you. First, be aware of the signals you give your dog. For example, are you saying sit with your words but something completely different with your body language? Help your dog understand your intentions by being consistent and clear.

Written by: By Stephanie Gibeault, MSc, CPDT

For the link and full article, please click on : https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/why-does-my-dog-stare-at-me/#:~:text=Just%20as%20humans%20stare%20into,feelings%20of%20love%20and%20trust.