Dog owners have unique ways of communicating with their furry best friend, and a smooch on the head or offering their favorite treat are common ways we show our pooch love and affection. Sometimes, it may take a single look from you, and your dog immediately knows that chewing up your shoes is not a desired behavior. Like humans, dogs use sounds, body postures, eye contact, and facial expressions to communicate their feelings, including joy, fear, and pain.
Understanding your dog's communication cues is a part of responsible dog ownership. It will improve your bond, as well as their overall well-being. Whale eye is a common dog expression that some pet parents may not be familiar with, and in some cases, is the first clue of an impending problem, pain, or fear.
What is whale eye in dogs?
Similar to the all-familiar side eye that people may exhibit when they are displeased with a situation, dogs may also show a similar expression. Whale eye, also called half-moon eye or dorsal gaze, refers to a dog expression when the whites of their eyes, or sclera, are seen more than the pupil. Dogs communicate with all parts of their body, including their eyes, and this expression typically is a sign of fear, stress, or anxiety.
In some cases, dogs exhibiting whale eye could also indicate that your pet suffers from an underlying health issue. As with any abnormal dog behavior, it is essential to look at the entire dog, their environment, and the overall situation to determine the context and meaning of what your dog is trying to tell you.
Common causes of whale eye in dogs
Similar to a wagging tail, which has multiple meanings, a dog showing more of the white of the eye could indicate various issues or situations. It could also be a normal anatomical finding for the breed. Brachycephalic or flat-faced breeds, including pugs and French bulldogs, typically have large, bulging eyes that may appear similar to a dog deliberately showing the whale eye expression. Common causes of whale eye may include:
- Fear
- Anxiety
- Distress or overstimulation
- Aggression or territorial behavior
- Pain or discomfort from an underlying head issue (e.g., neck pain)
- Non-aggressive behavior during playtime with another dog or toy
Importance of recognizing whale eye and other associated signs
Whale eye in dogs is a subtle way of communication and may be an early warning sign that something is wrong and it is unsafe to approach them. However, dog owners need to understand and observe the other concurrent body language signs to decode the message their dog is trying to relay. Dogs who are anxious, fearful, distressed, or aggressive will often exhibit other signs, which may include:
- Rigid, tense body posturing
- Dilated pupils
- Growling or showing teeth
- Clenched or tense jaw
- Heavy panting
- Lip licking
- Raised hair
- Head low or angled to the side
- Slow movement or reluctant to move
- Tail between the legs, or low, wagging tail that is not relaxed
- Ears pinned back
Ways to respond when your dog shows whale eye or other fearful body language
When it comes to non-play-associated whale eye in your dog and other fear-associated canine body language, it's essential to stay calm and avoid escalating the situation. Immediately identify the upsetting stimulus, such as another animal, person, or sound, and safely remove that trigger from your dog's environment. Never approach a fearful dog; give them space and remain calm. Additionally, avoid direct eye contact, move slowly to prevent escalation of the situation, and show your dog that you are not providing an additional threat.
Depending on the situation and your pup's safety, redirecting their attention to a non-threatening, calming stimulus, such as a favorite toy, may help them feel safer. Speaking in a low, calm voice will also help a fearful dog to understand that you are not a threat.
Ways to prevent or decrease fear and anxiety in your dog
Decoding canine body language cues can be challenging, but understanding subtle signs, like whale eye, will help you better care for and address your dog's needs and behavior. Building trust with your pup is essential for bonding and supporting its health. Trust building and training when your pup is young will decrease the chances of them growing up to become fearful, anxious, or aggressive.
Other ways to improve your dog's mental health and help prevent fear and anxiety include:
- Socialization –– Properly socialize your dog when they are young and expose them to various sights, smells, people, and environments to help reduce fearful behavior as they age.
- Provide a positive, calm environment—A dog's behavior may also reflect its environment. Ensure they are provided with a safe, calm space in the home where they can retreat when a perceived threat or anxiety-inducing situation presents itself.
- Exercise –– Ensure your pooch receives ample physical and mental training, as boredom can increase stress and anxiety in dogs. Puzzle toys or a game of hide-and-seek with their favorite toy can help reduce stress while providing physical and mental stimulation.
- Veterinary care—Bring your dog for annual or frequent veterinary examinations with your family DVM to ensure it is healthy and free of any underlying health issues. Aggression or anxiety can be the first clue that your dog is in pain or suffering from an illness.
- Consult with a specialist –– Dogs who exhibit severe anxiety or fear may benefit from working with board-certified veterinary behaviorists to learn more advanced treatments, which may include medication, to help decrease stress and fearful behavior.
- Training — Provide consistent training and consider enrolling your dog in a course to learn basic obedience and commands, like the American Kennel Club (AKC) canine good citizen certification, to build trust and communicate clearly with your pup.
- Quality nutrition and supplements — Feeding your dog an AAFCO-approved complete and balanced diet for its age and breed will ensure it receives the required nutrients for overall health and wellness, including brain health. Additionally, providing veterinary-approved supplements, like Native Pet Calm Chews, during times of increased anxiety can help decrease its fear and offer more relaxation.
Consistency is key when communicating and caring for your four-legged best friend. Understanding their body language and cues is the first step to ensuring they feel safe and remain healthy. Additionally, consult your veterinarian if your dog regularly shows aggressive, fearful, or anxious behavior so that underlying health and behavioral issues can be ruled out.
For more information and tips on your dog's health, check out the Native Pet blog.
