As a dog behaviourist, one of the most easily missed signals I see is “Whale Eye.”
This is when a dog reveals the whites of their eyes whilst at times keeping their head still. Although it might look “guilty” or “funny” in a photo, your dog is actually sending a clear message: “I am uncomfortable and I need space.”
Whale eye usually occurs when a dog feels threatened or is guarding something valuable. You’ll often see it when:
A child hugs them or gets too close to their face. Someone approaches while they are eating or chewing a bone. They are being forced into a situation they want to escape.
Stop the interaction immediately. If you’re stroking them, calmly stop. If someone is approaching them, ask them to calmly stop and walk to the side or away.
Give the dog a clear space to move away.
Assess the “Why.” Look at the environment. Was there a loud noise? Is someone too close, bending over them, moving too quickly etc.
Recognising whale eye can prevent a lip lift, growl etc. Respect the space your dog is asking for, and they will trust you more for it.
#helpathanddogbehaviour#dogs#bodylanguage#caninecommunication#dog#January
