Why shouldn't you smile at dogs? - briefly
You should not smile at dogs because it can be perceived as a threat or sign of aggression by them. Dogs read facial expressions differently from humans and may react unpredictably to smiling.
Why shouldn't you smile at dogs? - in detail
Smiling at dogs may seem like a friendly gesture, but it can actually be misinterpreted by them due to their unique communication methods and body language. Dogs primarily communicate through facial expressions, body postures, and vocalizations, rather than smiles, which are more common in human interactions. When a dog sees a smiling human, they may perceive it as an aggressive or threatening display, given that baring teeth is often associated with dominance or aggression in the canine world. This misinterpretation can lead to unwanted behaviors from the dog, such as growling, barking, or even biting, as they may feel the need to defend themselves or assert their dominance. Therefore, it is generally advised not to smile at dogs to avoid any potential misunderstandings and ensure a safe and positive interaction for both parties involved.