Should you make eye contact with an aggressive dog?
Andre Bosco
2025-06-21 07:17:07
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Typically, when a dog acts aggressively, it is feeling threatened. Looking directly at the dog will make it feel more so, but still keep a side look at the dog in case it makes a move toward you. I suggest giving it space and time to watch you. Sitting in the room, reading quietly or conversing calmly while the owner caresses the dog can help. Also, it may help if the owner can introduce you - do not pet the dog's head (dominating) but let the dog sniff your hand (giving a treat is a good thing if okay with the owner).
Cruz O'Connell
2025-06-14 03:02:31
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Don't touch or pet the dog in an attempt to befriend it. And whatever you do, don't look it in the eye as the dog may interpret that as a challenge. Keep your body's side positioned towards the dog versus facing it front on or standing behind it. Your goal here is simple: make yourself as boring as possible so the dog loses interest. Avoid sudden movement. Think of slowing down and communicating through your body that you aren’t a threat.
Sally O'Conner
2025-06-04 01:08:26
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Prolonged eye contact can have different meanings for dogs, depending on their individual temperaments. But a dog, especially one who struggles with reactivity or is wary of people, might be alarmed by a stranger staring at them. Staring Can Make a Dog Feel Challenged For a dog, a stranger staring at them might be seen as a challenge, threat, or something to make them uneasy. Also try to avoid extended periods of eye contact, especially for dogs who already be struggling with human reactivity or overarousal. If you notice a strange dog staring at you, particularly if they have a stiff posture and are unblinking, try to avoid making eye contact. Instead, back away to give that dog some space, since they are showing clear signs of discomfort. A recently rescued dog who is shy, uncertain, or somewhat distrustful might avoid eye contact with you or turn away when they notice you looking back. In these circumstances, don’t stare into their eyes and allow them time to acclimate to your presence.
Isabella Little
2025-06-03 22:37:37
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Have strangers avoid direct eye contact with Zeus until he gets to know them. Dog Eye Contact Reactivity It is not uncommon for dogs to be reactive when people make eye contact with them, especially new people. Some dogs see eye contact as a threat, especially if it’s prolonged. For dogs, direct eye contact can be interpreted as a challenge. That’s why so many have dog eye contact reactivity. People dont mean to challenge them, but looking directly in dogs eyes can come across that way to dogs. But in Zeus’s case, I’d like to have more of a plan than just a one time exercise. Once Zeus is very comfortable with the person, they can practice the focus exercise outlined in the free positive dog training video below. But avoiding having strangers make direct eye contact with him will also help stop him from getting better at this behavior.
Brady Hill
2025-06-03 20:45:30
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However, locking eyes means something very different in the canine world and people need to be aware that their friendly gaze may be considered a challenge or threat before meeting the eyes of an unfamiliar dog. Dogs, however, see the same action as a sign of dominance. Dogs rarely make prolonged eye contact with other dogs and a straight gaze is generally deemed threatening behavior. In most cases, one dog will break eye contact with another to avoid a potential fight. Some dogs, however, react aggressively to the perceived challenge, backing up and barking or even biting in response. Approach the dog with your body slightly angled, so your shoulders aren’t squared towards him, and avert your eyes from a direct gaze. This non-threatening body language combined with a soft voice will let the dog know you are not a threat and should deflect any aggressive reactions from your new canine friend.
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