Posted on May 20, 2009 by: WayCoolDogs

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It has been said that the “eyes are the windows of the soul” with dog communication using visual contact  a prime example. Visual contact  is considered one of the best types of basic nonverbal communications between all living things with the finest  examples occurring  between animals. Dog communication using visual contact is one of the most important processes between mankind and their dogs through the training processes or through simple daily communication.

An excellent article written by Julie-Ann Amos entitled “Understanding Dog to Dog Eye Contact” gives some information on how dogs relate to one another in many ways. Participating and owning  a dog rescue which involves lots of behavioral issues and much-needed dog training, we have learned how important it is to connect with a dog/human eye connection. An expert in the field for human visual interaction, Dr. Peter Marsh has written an article “Eye to Eye: How People Interact” — “Whether it’s a loving gaze, hostile stare, nervous glance or a refusal to look altogether, the duration of the contact (or lack thereof) reveals our interest in the other party and the situation.” This is similar in the relationship between a dog and its owner, or any animal involved.

Importance of Dog Communication Using Visual Contact

Pamella Neely has written an article regarding a dog’s eyesight entitled, “Eye Contact Is Essential for Dog Training” which covers a wide base of eye communication needs between a dog and its trainer.

“If you incorporate eye contact to your dogs training for attention sessions then he will always look up to your for guidance and perform excellent behavior. This type of bond will ultimately bring your relationship to a higher level. You will both learn how to read each other’s body language and emotions.”

We have found that if there is no direct communication through the eyes, there can be no actual connection between what the dog wants and needs to the owner or trainer. The eyes of the dog and direct contact to the world can show many things–fear, playfulness, pain, illness, joy, lethargy, anger,  or pure terror. This is what makes the dogs such excellent companions, as they do not play emotional games to get what they want. They are 100% pure and real, demonstrating what they are feeling at the moment and what they want through their eyes and their actions.

It is said the dogs are God’s lessons for us, sent here to teach us how to love and care unconditionally. If you doubt this, read the children’s book “Planet of the Dogs” written by Robert J. McCarty–our upcoming book review at Way Cool Dogs which shows why dogs have been sent to us as a rescue and teaching love and loyalty with original illustrations. Unfortunately, in real life this path throughout history has been marred with pain and abuse for many dogs and ignorance on the part of many humans.

WARNINGS Regarding Direct Eye Contact With Aggressive or Fearful Dogs

Dogs who have not been socialized as a puppy or severely abused dogs may consider direct eye contact a challenge or threat. Also, dogs who do not feel secure will not make eye contact with their owner/trainer. Respect and security needs to be earned BY THE OWNER or TRAINER, not the dog! When working with such dogs, one needs to gain their confidence and respect first so they trust who they are with–something they have not been able to do throughout their entire life up until this point.

Also, a direct eye contact can be dangerous if a dog is an alpha-aggressive dog, and they may attack and bite if they do not know you or consider you a direct threat. Simply stand still and do not move your eyes until the dog backs away or drops the eye gaze.  Meanwhile, submissive or fearful dogs will look away to show their submission to you.  Direct eye contact will be impossible until they get to know you and feel secure. A dog who offers direct eye contact is a secure dog, and one who has been taught love and respect.

Body and Eye Communication of the Dog

Eye communication can be enhanced with body communication to get the message across to you what the animal is thinking. No better example of this is Ms. Holly Higgins, of our “Holly’s Neighborhood”.

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