Dog side eye: What it is and what to do

By Kristia Goodnight

After a long day, you flop down on the sofa next to your resting dog who promptly moves a cushion down while giving you an unmistakable side eye, along with a sigh. Aside from feeling a bit judged, what does dog side eye mean exactly?

This seemingly simple gesture is loaded with meaning and can tell you a lot about what your dog is feeling – and trying to communicate.

Understanding the nuances of your dog's facial expressions, especially side eye, can boost your ability to respond to their needs and emotions.

Whether it's signaling discomfort, curiosity, or mild annoyance, your dog's side eye is an important part of their non-verbal communication.

The basics of dog facial expressions

Dogs are known for their expressive faces, which they use to communicate a wide range of emotions and intentions. Understanding these expressions can help improve the bond between you and your furry friend, allowing for better communication and a deeper connection.

Dogs use a variety of facial expressions to convey their feelings, much like humans do. These expressions are a key part of their non-verbal communication and can give insight into what your dog is thinking or feeling.

The significance of dog expressions beyond side eye

Dogs often use their eyes to get your attention, like looking back and forth between you and what they want to give you the "puppy dog eyes" to beg for food or affection. Knowing your dog’s expressions and what they mean can help you better understand your pet:

• Relaxed and happy: When a dog's eyes are soft and slightly closed, it indicates they are relaxed and content. A slightly open mouth, possibly with a gentle pant, suggests a happy and comfortable dog.
• Alert and interested: Ears that are perked up and facing forward show that the dog is paying close attention to something. When a dog’s eyes are wide open and focused, they are alert and curious about their surroundings.
• Anxious or fearful: Also known as "whale eye," this can indicate fear or anxiety. A tightly closed mouth or lips pulled back to expose the teeth can be a sign of stress or fear.
• Aggressive or threatened: A hard, unblinking stare can be a sign of aggression. Showing teeth, especially with a curled lip, is a clear sign of aggression or threat.

Why do dogs give side eye?

Dogs give side eye / whale eye primarily to communicate their emotions and intentions without making direct eye contact. This behavior can signal discomfort, anxiety, caution, or even aggression.

Interpreting different types of dog side eye

Here’s a deeper look into the different reasons dogs give side eye:

Discomfort or anxiety

When a dog feels threatened or anxious, they may give side eye to keep an eye on the source of their discomfort while avoiding direct confrontation. This can be a way of signaling that they are uneasy and prefer to be left alone.

In environments that make a dog nervous, such as a vet's office or a crowded place, side eye can indicate their discomfort and desire for space.

Caution or wariness

Dogs often give side eye when they are wary of something or someone. By turning their head but keeping their eyes fixed on the potential threat, they can monitor the situation while appearing non-aggressive.

In new or unfamiliar environments, dogs might use side eye to keep an eye on their surroundings, ensuring they are aware of any potential dangers or changes.

Aggression or warning

Side eye can be a warning sign that a dog is feeling threatened and might act aggressively if the perceived threat continues to approach or behave in a way the dog finds uncomfortable. This is often accompanied by other signs of aggression, like a stiff body, raised hackles, or growling.

When a dog is guarding something valuable, like food or a toy, they might give side eye to warn others to stay away. This is a way of communicating their intent to protect their resources.

Playful communication with humans

Sometimes dogs give side eye to get their owner’s attention. This can be a playful gesture or a way to communicate that they want something, such as a treat or a walk.

Dogs that have been trained or have learned certain boundaries might give side eye to test or check if they are allowed to do something, gauging the owner’s reaction without fully committing to the action.

How to tell the difference between a playful side eye and a warning?

Context and body language are key. A playful side eye is usually accompanied by a relaxed body posture, wagging tail, and an overall playful demeanor. In contrast, a warning side eye may come with stiffening of the body, growling, or bared teeth.

Side eye vs. whale eye: What are whale eyes in dogs?

Side eye and whale eye are often terms used interchangeably but they are two separate dog expressions. While they may appear very similar, they convey very different emotions and intentions.

Side eye

Side eye in dogs is when they turn their head slightly away while keeping their eyes fixed on a person or object. This often results in the whites of their eyes becoming partially visible. Side eye can communicate various emotions depending on the context and the dog's overall body language. Here’s a breakdown:

• Intrigued: A dog might give side eye when they are curious about something. This is usually accompanied by other signs of interest, such as perked ears and a relaxed body posture.
• Skeptical: If a dog is uncertain or wary about a situation or person, side eye can indicate their cautious approach. They are keeping an eye on the potential threat while maintaining a degree of distance.
• Annoyed: When a dog is slightly irritated or disapproving of something, they might give a relaxed side eye. This can be a subtle signal of their mild displeasure without escalating the situation.

When a dog encounters something new, from a new guest to a new pet, your dog might give side eye to keep an eye on the unfamiliar while maintaining a cautious distance.

Whale eye

Whale eye is a more intense version of side eye, where a larger portion of the whites of the eyes (sclerae) is visible. This is often a sign of significant stress or agitation and should be taken seriously. Here’s what whale eye usually indicates:

• Fear: A dog displaying whale eye is likely feeling frightened. This could be due to an unfamiliar person, loud noises, or a threatening situation. Other signs of fear, such as a tucked tail and flattened ears, often accompany this expression.
• Angry: When a dog is angry or about to become aggressive, they might show whale eye. This is usually a warning sign that they feel threatened and might react defensively.
• Threatened: In situations where a dog feels cornered or in danger, whale eye can be a signal that they are on high alert and may act out if the threat doesn’t retreat.

A dog at the vet might display whale eye when being examined or restrained, due to their high level of stress and discomfort.

Comparing side eye and whale eye

Side eye typically indicates milder emotions like curiosity, skepticism, or mild annoyance. It’s a more subtle form of communication and doesn’t usually imply immediate danger or high stress.

Whale Eye suggests more intense emotions such as fear, anger, or feeling threatened. It’s a clear signal that the dog is experiencing significant stress and could potentially react aggressively.

Is whale eye in dogs always bad?

Whale eye is generally a sign of distress. Whale eye is a clear signal that the dog is experiencing significant stress and needs your attention to alleviate the situation. Understanding the context and accompanying body language is crucial for accurately interpreting this behavior.

Here are common signs and symptoms of anxiety in dogs:

• Pacing and restlessness: An anxious dog might pace back and forth or have trouble settling down.
• Panting and drooling: Excessive panting and drooling without physical exertion can be signs of anxiety.
• Whining or barking: Vocalizations like whining, barking, or howling can indicate distress.
• Destructive behavior: Chewing, digging, or other destructive behaviors, especially when left alone, can be a sign of separation anxiety.
• Excessive licking or chewing: Dogs might lick or chew their paws or other parts of their body excessively.
• Shaking or trembling: Physical shaking or trembling can be a clear sign of anxiety.
• Hiding or avoidance: An anxious dog may try to hide or avoid certain people, places, or situations.

Dogs, like humans, can experience anxiety, and recognizing the signs can help you provide the support they need.

What to do if you see critical signs of stress in a dog

If you notice signs of stress in your dog, it’s important to act quickly and calmly to help them feel safe and secure. Here are the steps to take:

Assess the situation calmly

• Stay composed: Your calm demeanor can help prevent escalating your dog's stress.
• Observe: Look for signs like whale eye, pinned back ears, a tucked tail, or rigid body posture to confirm the stress level.
• Identify the trigger: Try to determine what is causing the stress, whether it’s a particular person, object, noise, or environment.

Give them space

• Avoid direct eye contact: Staring directly at a dog can be perceived as a threat.
• Avoid touching: Unless the dog is known to find comfort in your touch, it’s best to avoid physical contact which might add to their stress.
• Provide space: Allow them to move away and create a safe distance between them and the stressor.

Remove Them from the Stress Source

• Guide calmly: If your dog is on a leash, gently guide them away from the stressor without pulling or forcing them.
• Create a barrier: If possible, create a physical barrier between the dog and the source of their stress, such as closing a door or moving behind a solid object.
• Relocate to a safe area: Move them to a quiet, familiar place where they can feel secure and calm down.

Additional Tips for Managing a Stressed Dog

• Speak softly: Use a soft, soothing voice to help reassure the dog.
• Stay with them: If they find comfort in your presence, stay nearby without crowding them.
• Monitor closely: Keep an eye on their behavior and look for signs of improvement or further distress.
• Offer comfort items: Provide access to familiar objects, like a favorite toy or blanket, to help them feel more secure.

By calmly assessing the situation, giving the dog space, and removing them from the source of stress, you can help them feel more secure and prevent further escalation of their anxiety.

If your dog’s stress is a recurring issue or becomes extreme, reach out for guidance from your veterinarian. The Lifetime Protection Membership Plus includes so many services including a 24/7 Vet Helpline provided by whiskerDocs®, that can help you assess your pet’s signals and provide custom advice.

Understanding dog body language

Dogs communicate primarily through body language, and their facial expressions play a key role. Learning to interpret these signals, from a playful side eye to a fearful whale eye, will create a deeper connection with your dog.

By being attentive to your dog's body language and expressions, you can better meet their emotional needs, build a trusting relationship, and keep them happy and healthy.