Hilarious Expression or Careful Communication? What Dog’s “Side-Eye” Means

Ever been on the end of a dog’s withering stare? Frequently seen in memes, “side-eye” from a dog can be their attempt to communicate with you. Just like humans, animals use a variety of methods to communicate. However, as the first domesticated animal, it is no wonder that many of us find it easiest to understand what emotions and feelings dogs are attempting to convey. 

A dog may use a variety of methods to communicate. Their body language, vocalizations, and even facial expressions can help them get their message across. Indeed, there is even a scientific hypothesis that dogs and humans co-evolved to be better able to understand each other. This may be one of the reasons that dogs are so attuned to human emotions and commands. 

Dogs’ facial expressions can convey a range of feelings and emotions. Unlike many animals, dogs’ eyes have white sclera. These whites, along with eye placement and body language, help dogs communicate via a wide range of expressions. Interestingly, humans may have developed such large amounts of visible sclera because we rely so heavily on our eyes to communicate with each other. This can also help explain why we may be particularly attuned to canine expressions that expose their sclera. Amazingly, dogs may even have developed this trait because humans specifically bred for it. 

Exposing their sclera can mean many things. Dogs may display “whale eye”, or widen their eyes when they are scared or unsure. They may also use their sclera in different expressions. 

One of these expressions is the oft-memed canine side-eye. In humans, side-eye is often used to express disapproval, scorn, or other disapproving emotions. For dogs, it can communicate an equally wide range of feelings. Side-eye can be used to show that a dog is feeling anxious, protective, or territorial.

Although “side-eye” may look funny or cute to humans, it is important to remember that it may be an expression of negative emotion for a dog. Never try to provoke a dog into giving “side-eye” and be sure to give a dog space if they are making this expression. 

Dogs and humans have coexisted for an estimated 40,000 years. However, many people continue to treat “man’s best friend” with unimaginable cruelty. Sign this petition to Help Prevent Cruelty to Dogs!

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