Dogs Blink 30% More At Owners
Researchers found that dogs' blink rate increases when watching their owners blink, and their eyes convey signals like stress, trust, or excitement through whale eye, slow blinks, and pupil size
A recent study published in the journal Royal Society Open Science found that dogs are sensitive to human blinks and can track them, with their own blink rate increasing when watching their owners blink. The study tested 38 dogs, with 35 ultimately meeting the criteria for inclusion in the analysis.
The dogs watched short videos featuring three people: their owner, an unfamiliar woman, and an unfamiliar man, with two versions of each video, one with the person blinking every three seconds and the other with a neutral expression. The results showed that the dogs' blink rate increased when they watched their caretakers blink, but not when they watched unfamiliar people.
A dog's eyes can convey various signals such as stress, trust, or excitement through signals like whale eye, slow blinks, and pupil size. Soft, relaxed eyes signal that a dog feels safe, with characteristics such as loose eyelids, almond-shaped eyes, and a slow blink rate. On the other hand, a direct, sustained stare from a dog can be a challenge, rather than a sign of affection.
A dog that won't meet your gaze after a scolding is using a de-escalation signal, rather than confessing to anything. The signals conveyed by a dog's eyes can be misread if not considered in conjunction with other body language signals, such as ear position, tail height, and overall posture.
## What it means The study's findings suggest that dogs are highly attuned to their owners and can pick up on subtle cues, such as blinking. This sensitivity can be used to improve communication between dogs and their owners, and to better understand canine behavior.
## Why it matters Understanding what a dog's eyes are telling you can be crucial in preventing bites, easing stressful situations, and strengthening the bond between dog and owner. By recognizing the signals conveyed by a dog's eyes, owners can respond more effectively to their dog's needs and emotions.
The research also highlights the importance of considering the context in which a dog's signals are being conveyed. By taking into account other body language signals, owners can gain a more complete understanding of their dog's behavior and respond in a way that is tailored to their dog's individual needs.
