How do dogs use their eyes to show submission?

Dogs use their eyes as a key part of their body language to communicate emotions, including submission. Understanding how dogs express submission through their eyes requires a combination of observing their behavior, understanding canine communication, and recognizing the context in which these behaviors occur. Below is a detailed explanation of how dogs use their eyes to show submission, along with practical insights and related information.

1. Direct Response to the Question:
Dogs show submission through their eyes by avoiding direct eye contact, softening their gaze, and sometimes by partially closing their eyes. These behaviors signal to other dogs or humans that they are not a threat and are acknowledging a higher social status in the interaction.

2. Detailed Explanation and Background Information:
In the canine world, direct eye contact is often perceived as a challenge or a sign of dominance. When a dog feels submissive, they will avoid prolonged eye contact to prevent escalating tension. Instead, they may look away, blink frequently, or avert their gaze downward. This behavior is rooted in their social hierarchy, where lower-ranking dogs defer to higher-ranking ones by avoiding confrontational gestures.

Additionally, a submissive dog may soften their eyes, making them appear rounder and less intense. This is often accompanied by a relaxed facial expression, with ears pulled back and a slightly lowered head. These subtle changes in eye expression help convey a non-threatening demeanor.

3. Scientific or Professional Insights:
Research in canine behavior has shown that dogs are highly attuned to human and canine facial expressions. Studies have demonstrated that dogs can read human emotions through eye contact and facial cues, and they use similar signals to communicate with other dogs. The act of avoiding eye contact or softening the gaze is a universal sign of submission across many species, including wolves, the ancestors of domestic dogs.

4. Practical Tips and Recommendations:
If you notice your dog avoiding eye contact or softening their gaze, it is important to respond appropriately. Avoid forcing eye contact, as this can make your dog feel uncomfortable or threatened. Instead, reward calm and submissive behavior with gentle praise or treats to reinforce positive interactions.

When meeting a new dog, avoid staring directly into their eyes, as this can be perceived as a challenge. Instead, blink slowly and look away occasionally to signal that you are not a threat. This can help build trust and reduce anxiety in the dog.

5. Potential Risks or Concerns:
While submissive eye behavior is generally harmless, it is important to recognize when it may indicate underlying stress or fear. For example, if a dog consistently avoids eye contact and shows other signs of anxiety, such as trembling or cowering, it may be a sign of chronic stress or past trauma. In such cases, it is crucial to address the root cause of the behavior and provide a safe and supportive environment.

6. Additional Related Information:
Dogs also use other body language cues to show submission, such as lowering their body, tucking their tail, or rolling onto their back. These behaviors often accompany submissive eye signals and should be interpreted as part of the overall context. Understanding these cues can help you better communicate with your dog and respond to their emotional needs.

7. References to Expert Opinions or Research:
Experts in canine behavior, such as Dr. Patricia McConnell and Dr. Stanley Coren, have extensively studied dog communication and emphasize the importance of reading subtle cues like eye contact. Their research highlights how dogs use a combination of visual, auditory, and olfactory signals to convey their emotions and intentions.

8. Step-by-Step Instructions:
If you want to encourage calm and submissive behavior in your dog, follow these steps:
a. Avoid direct eye contact, especially during initial interactions.
b. Use slow blinks and soft gazes to signal non-threatening intentions.
c. Reward submissive behaviors, such as looking away or softening the eyes, with praise or treats.
d. Be patient and consistent in your approach to build trust over time.

9. Prevention and Long-Term Care Suggestions:
To prevent stress or fear-related submissive behaviors, ensure your dog has a safe and predictable environment. Provide regular socialization opportunities with other dogs and people to build confidence. Avoid using punishment or intimidation, as this can exacerbate submissive behaviors and damage your relationship with your dog.

10. When to Seek Professional Help:
If your dog's submissive behaviors are accompanied by signs of extreme fear, anxiety, or aggression, consult a professional dog trainer or veterinary behaviorist. They can help identify the underlying cause and develop a tailored behavior modification plan to address the issue effectively.

In summary, dogs use their eyes to show submission by avoiding direct eye contact, softening their gaze, and displaying other calming signals. Understanding these behaviors can help you better interpret your dog's emotions and respond in a way that fosters trust and positive communication.