Why won’t my dog look at me?

Dogs have a different interpretation of eye contact than humans. To dogs, prolonged eye contact can be a challenge or a sign of conflict.

Humans view eye contact as an important element of social interactions, and the ability to make and hold eye contact typically indicates a comfortable and trusting relationship. Knowing this, it makes sense that you might be disappointed or even worried when your dog won’t look you in the eye or looks away when you look at them. Typically this is not a bad sign. Unless trained to do so, dogs do not understand the social context behind eye contact. Additionally a dog’s instincts tell them that prolonged eye contact may be a sign of a challenge or a question to your authority. As you continue to bond with your dog they may grow more comfortable with eye contact.

If your dog avoids looking at you at all, it could indicate that the dog is afraid or uncomfortable. If they are not used to being around strangers or other dogs, that could create this reaction. If your dog is new and had a previous owner, they may not be fully comfortable with you, or their previous owner may have mistreated them in some way. In this case you must carefully work to forge a stronger, more trusting relationship with your dog.

Is it Bad if My Dog Won’t Look At Me?

It is pretty normal for dogs to avoid direct eye contact, but if your dog avoids looking at you at all it can affect your relationship and the dog’s happiness. You will have trouble communicating with and training a dog that avoids looking at you and tasks like cleaning and grooming will be more difficult.

Sometimes dogs will avoid their owners because they are afraid. If they know they have done something they believe is wrong and anticipate a reprimand they may avoid your gaze and even move to a different room. Be careful about how you approach punishing your dog for wrong doing, fear on either side does not lend itself to a healthy bond between human and dog.

What Can I Do to Teach My Dog About Eye Contact?

The best way to teach your dog about eye contact is to train them to understand that eye contact is a good thing. Carefully encourage your dog to make eye contact and then reward it with affirmations and/or treats. It may also help to socialize your dog with humans and other dogs to help them get used to looking and being looked at.

If you are worried that your dog is afraid of you, either due to your actions or the actions of a previous owner, you may need to work on strengthening your relationship with your dog. Ensure that they feel the relationship is one of mutual affection and trust.