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Dog of the Day: Archie!

Meme of the day: But they’re so cute!

Why does my dog stare at me?

Have you ever caught your dog staring at you and wondered why? Dogs communicate in many ways, and staring is one of them. While it might seem mysterious or even unnerving at times, your dog's gaze can indicate a range of emotions and intentions. Let's explore some of the most common reasons your dog might fixate on you.

Seeking Attention and Affection

Dogs are social animals and often stare at their owners to seek attention, affection, or playtime. If your dog locks eyes with you and wags its tail, it’s likely trying to engage with you. Some dogs may stare in anticipation of petting, cuddling, or a fun activity like going for a walk.

Waiting for Cues or Commands

Dogs that have undergone training are accustomed to looking at their owners for guidance. They may stare at you while waiting for their next command, especially if they associate eye contact with rewards. This behavior is common in breeds known for their intelligence and working capabilities, such as Border Collies and German Shepherds.

Expressing Love and Bonding

Eye contact between dogs and their owners can strengthen their emotional bond. Studies have shown that when a dog and its owner share a prolonged gaze, both experience an increase in oxytocin levels—the same hormone that fosters bonding between humans (Nagasawa et al., 2015). This means your dog’s loving stare could be a sign of deep attachment and trust.

Hunger and Food Anticipation

Many dogs develop the habit of staring at their owners when they’re hungry or hoping for a treat. If your dog stares at you while you’re eating or near mealtime, it might be silently pleading for a bite or reminding you that it's time for dinner. This behavior is reinforced when owners occasionally give in and share food.

Reading Your Emotions

Dogs are highly intuitive and can sense human emotions. Your dog might stare at you to gauge your mood, especially if it notices changes in your tone, facial expressions, or body language. Research suggests that dogs can distinguish between human emotions and respond accordingly (Albuquerque et al., 2016).

Signs of Health Issues or Anxiety

A dog’s stare can sometimes indicate discomfort, anxiety, or medical issues. If the stare is accompanied by unusual behavior such as restlessness, whining, or changes in appetite, it’s a good idea to consult a veterinarian. Anxiety-related staring may also occur if a dog feels uncertain about its environment or is experiencing stress.

Displaying Dominance or Challenge

In some cases, a direct stare can be a sign of dominance, particularly in dogs with strong territorial instincts. If a dog’s stare is accompanied by stiff body posture and a lack of blinking, it may be asserting dominance or feeling threatened. Understanding body language is crucial to interpreting whether the stare is friendly or confrontational.

Conclusion

A dog’s stare can mean many things, from love and affection to anticipation or anxiety. The context, body language, and circumstances surrounding the stare are key to understanding its true meaning. Observing your dog’s behavior and responding appropriately can help strengthen your bond and ensure their well-being.

References:

Albuquerque, N., Guo, K., Wilkinson, A., Savalli, C., Otta, E., & Mills, D. (2016). Dogs recognize dog and human emotions. Biology Letters, 12(1), 20150883.

Nagasawa, M., Kikusui, T., Onaka, T., & Ohta, M. (2015). Oxytocin-gaze positive loop and the coevolution of human-dog bonds. Science, 348(6232), 333-336.

The easiest way to upgrade your coffee at home

I don’t know about you, but like most Americans, the first thing I reach for every morning is my favorite mug and the coffee in my pantry. Until recently, I settled for any coffee that seemed “okay” at the grocery store, hoping it’d do the job of waking me up. I didn’t care about its flavor or quality. Then I discovered Trade, and everything changed.

Trade introduced me to some of the most exciting small-batch roasters and coffee shops across the country—the kinds of places I’d love to visit if I lived nearby. I took their quick quiz about my coffee preferences, and they matched me with unique coffees I’d never find at the grocery store. Now, I can’t imagine my mornings without them. Each bag is roasted fresh and shipped directly to my door. I was amazed at how much better it tasted than my usual grocery store coffee, and I didn’t have to change my brewing routine at all. The aroma? Even my mail carrier noticed and asked about it—it was that good. I’m never going back to the grocery store for coffee again.

For a limited time, I Love Every Dog readers can enjoy 30% off their first order when they sign up for a Trade subscription. Simply share your preferences—such as taste, grind, and coffee consumption—and find your perfect roast. Then, sit back, relax, and enjoy fresh coffee delivered right to your doorstep. There’s no risk, only the reward of exceptional coffee.

Family photo of the day: Bailey Anne

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Sources:

Dog of the day: IG archiespawprint

Meme of the day: IG petsies