The internet has dubbed these sideways glances of judgment as “side eye”. This expression has gone viral in memes, videos, and photos, and has caused many to wonder what it means when dogs do this. Are they silently judging you? Or are they just annoyed by what’s going on around them? Let’s talk about why dogs give side-eye!
What is Dog Side-Eye?
Just like humans, dogs can give side-eye. If you haven’t seen a dog display this curious behavior before, it is when they keep their head facing forward, but their eyes turn sideways to look at their human. While it may look funny to us seeing a dog mimic human behavior, it can tell us a lot about how the dog is feeling or trying to communicate.
When humans give side-eye, it is usually to convey annoyance or disapproval. It’s a silent way of telling someone you’re frustrated with the situation. That said, the side-eyes of dogs may not always be negative. Some breeds, such as pugs, Shiba Inus, and Labrador retrievers, are just naturally more expressive, and they may be giving side-eye to get their owner’s attention.
Why Do Dogs Give Side-Eye?
If a dog gives you side-eye, don’t ignore it. They could be speaking volumes! But what are they really trying to say? Most reports say side-eye is a sign of stress or discomfort. When a dog feels uneasy or wants to avoid confrontation, they’ll glance over at their owners or whatever it is that is making them uncomfortable. It is often seen during grooming appointments or when someone is invading a dog’s personal space.
In addition to being a sign of anxiety, side-eye can also appear when a dog is guarding something. They look from side to side when they think there is a chance that something or someone is about to take what is theirs. At the end of the day, dogs are animals, and, in these moments, they are acting instinctively. Therefore, a dog might give you side-eye if they’re defending a toy, food, or their favorite resting spot. Paying attention to these signals can help you better understand your pet and strengthen your bond with your furry friend!
Other Dog Signs of Anxiety or Frustration
Sometimes, it can be difficult to tell when dogs are irritated or bothered. They cannot tell us with words, so we should look for warning signs that a dog is about to be aggressive or violent. When a dog is feeling antsy, they may exhibit the following:
- Dilated pupils – Large pupils are an animal’s natural response when they are in fight-or-flight mode. This usually happens when a dog is overstimulated or feels threatened.
- Lip licking – When there is no food involved, dogs will often lick their lips to show they are nervous.
- Low growling – Almost any form of growling means a dog is uncomfortable. It is best to back off if a dog is growling your way.
- Pinned-back ears – Pinned-back ears usually accompany other tense body signals. In this state, dogs are usually on high alert and looking for danger.
- Shaking or trembling – Dogs shake and tremble in response to a variety of stressful situations. It is commonly seen in response to storms and visits to the vet.
How is Side-Eye Different from Whale-Eye?
Side-eye and whale-eye are often used interchangeably, but they aren’t exactly the same. Both involve a dog shifting its eyes sideways. However, whale eyes should be considered to be a more intense version of the side-eye. When a dog displays whale-eye, the whites of their eyes (called the sclera) are very obviously visible, and it is a clear sign that a dog is afraid and apprehensive.
What Should I Do If My Dog is Giving Me Side-Eye?
Your dog is giving you side-eye, so what should you do? The first step is to look at what is happening around the dog. Are they being approached? Are they eating? Or maybe someone or another dog is in their vicinity. This could give you clues as to why the dog feels the way it is. The next step is to look at their body language and check for any of the signs mentioned above. These signs can help you determine if your pooch is just giving a quick glance or a more serious warning.
If your dog is tense, the best thing you can do is to give them some room. Step back and allow the dog to approach you if they choose. This not only shows the dog you respect their boundaries but also lowers the risk of being injured. It is also a good idea to remove any triggers that could be adding to the dog’s stress. Lastly, notice when these incidents happen. If it occurs during meals, your dog may be resource-guarding and could benefit from some proper training. Consulting a trainer or vet may be needed on how best to guide your pet’s behavior. After all, your dog isn’t just a pet. They’re also your companion and a part of the family.
