Why shouldn't you look a dog in the eye? - briefly
Looking a dog directly in the eyes can be perceived as aggressive or dominant behavior by the dog, which may provoke a negative response such as growling or biting. It is recommended to approach dogs calmly and avoid direct eye contact initially to build trust and ensure a positive interaction.
Why shouldn't you look a dog in the eye? - in detail
Looking a dog directly in the eyes can be perceived as a threatening or dominant gesture, which is why many experts advise against it. This behavior stems from the inherent hierarchical nature of canine social structure. Dogs have evolved to understand and respond to subtle body language cues, and direct eye contact is often interpreted as an attempt to assert dominance.
In a dog's world, sustained eye contact is typically used by dominant individuals to assert their authority over others. When you look a dog directly in the eyes, it may feel compelled to respond with its own display of dominance, which can lead to aggression or other unwanted behaviors. This is particularly relevant when meeting a new dog, as direct eye contact could be misinterpreted as a challenge.
Moreover, prolonged eye contact can cause stress and anxiety in some dogs, leading to changes in their behavior. They may become more agitated, try to avoid you, or even exhibit signs of fear such as trembling, cowering, or attempting to flee. This is especially true for dogs that have experienced trauma or are naturally timid.
To build trust and establish a positive relationship with a dog, it is advisable to use indirect eye contact. This involves looking at the dog from the side of your vision rather than directly facing them. This approach allows you to monitor their behavior without appearing confrontational. Additionally, giving the dog space and allowing it to initiate contact can help foster a sense of security and comfort.
In conclusion, while humans often use eye contact as a means of connection, in the canine world, direct eye contact is more about establishing hierarchy. By being mindful of this difference, you can create a more harmonious and respectful interaction with dogs.