Why Do Dogs Side-Eye?

It’s always funny when dogs offer human-like reactions to situations, from big smiles to heavy sighs. It makes you feel like your dog really understands you! 

One of the funniest facial expressions a dog can make is giving you the side-eye. Why is your dog so judgmental of you? Was your joke really that bad? “Dog side-eye” memes have become popular online with many pet parents sharing pictures and videos of their dogs making this funny expression. 

But while it might look cute and silly with your dog giving side-eye, the expression could mean something more serious. 

What Is Dog Side-Eye? 

When a dog averts their gaze to the side and shows the whites of their eyes, they are side-eyeing. In humans, this expression is commonly associated with showing judgment or exasperation. It can also be known as the “stink eye.” If one’s eyes are also narrowed, it gives a look of wariness or suspicion. 

While it’s in our nature to attribute human emotions and reactions to our pets, dogs don’t generally make this face for the same reasons that humans do.  

4 Reasons Why Dogs Side-Eye 

Reason #1: They Are Intrigued 

If your pup spots something that interests them, but they’re wary of it, they might shift their eyes to the side. They’re looking at what caught their attention while remaining on alert. 

Reason #2: They Feel Nervous 

If your dog feels slightly anxious or apprehensive in a situation, they might avert their gaze away to show submission to whatever is stressing them. They could also be looking to you for help. Try offering them a chew toy to calm down! Chewing is one of dogs’ natural responses to stress and a toy could help them let off some steam. 

Reason #3: They’re Annoyed 

This feeling probably comes the closest to why humans side-eye or even roll their eyes in frustration. If something annoys your dog, they may use the side-eye as a warning that they want to be left alone.  

Reason #4: They Know It Makes You Laugh 

Dogs repeat actions that produce desired results, which is the basis of reward-based dog training. If your pup gives you side-eye and it makes you laugh, they may learn that this is pleasing to you. Then, they will repeat the action when they’re feeling playful to encourage you to laugh again! 

They also mimic human behaviors, so your dog may have seen you making a side-eye expression and they are imitating it. In fact, that’s one of the reasons why dogs smile! 

Dog Side-Eye vs. Dog Whale Eye 

Don’t confuse side-eye with whale eye. While dog side-eye can signify mild annoyance or nervousness, whale eyes show much stronger—and more negative—emotions. 

Dog whale eye is when your pup’s eyes widen and you can see the whites all around their iris. They could also stare up at you with their head very low or on the ground. Their eyes may shift back and forth, their pupils dilate, and they start panting. 

These are all signs of stress in dogs. If your dog has whale eyes, they are most likely anxious or fearful and may even become aggressive or lash out. You should immediately take steps to calm your dog’s anxiety. 

Understanding Dog Body Language 

The best way to understand what your pup is feeling when they’re giving side-eye is to interpret their body language as a whole. Body language is the primary way dogs communicate, from wagging their tails to perking up their ears. 

When faced with a side-eyeing dog, take a moment to assess their body language, especially their posture, ears, and tail. Signs of fear or aggression include flattened ears, a stiff or tucked tail, and a hunched or curled body. On the other hand, curiosity or playfulness can look like a cocked head and a briskly wagging tail. 

By reading your dog’s body language, you can better understand what your dog’s side-eye means! 

🐶 Related → Dog Aggression vs. Playing: What’s the Difference?

When Is Dog Side-Eye a Cause for Concern? 

If your dog’s side-eye isn’t a passing expression but instead a sudden change to their eye shape or condition, it’s best to consult a veterinarian. Irregular bulging eyes are a cause for medical concern, and they can be associated with head trauma or illness. 

Two conditions to be aware of are: 

• Strabismus: This is when a dog’s eyes are misaligned, making them appear cross-eyed or lazy-eyed. If your dog develops it suddenly, it could be the result of an infection or injury. 
• Protopsis: When a dog’s eye is loosened or displaced from its socket and pushed forward, it gives a bulging eye look that can be mistaken for side-eye. This could be the result of blunt force trauma to the head and can constitute a medical emergency. 

Brachycephalic dogs like Pugs and French Bulldogs are more likely to develop bulging eyes because of their shallow eye sockets, but they can happen in any breed. If you’re concerned, contact your vet. 

Side-Eye Sass or Stress? 

The next time your dog makes a silly expression, check out their body language to make sure they’re not anxious, stressed, or fearful. Then, as long as they’re ok, feel free to snap a photo—bonus cute points if you get one with their tongue out, too! 

Now that you’re a side-eye expert, learn more about why your dog is staring at you.