We've all seen it: your dog approaches you with those big, sad puppy eyes while you're sitting down to eat, making it hard to resist giving them a little treat. But have you ever wondered what’s really behind that heart-melting look? It turns out, research suggests that those sad puppy eyes might actually be a learned behavior, not something hardwired into dogs' biology.
Here at Nextrition, we make cold-pressed dog food that's ideal for dogs with fussy eating habits, food allergies, and digestive issues. No matter whether your dog is giving you the sad eyes or not, offering them a well-balanced diet with high-quality ingredients helps keep them healthy and happy. But let’s dive into the research that explains the science behind those sad puppy eyes.
Raising the Eyebrows
From a biological standpoint, the “sad puppy eyes” are caused when dogs raise their eyebrows, which makes their eyes appear bigger and more doe-like. To us humans, this expression looks pitiful, which is why we tend to respond by giving them attention. But is this reflexive behavior? Is it genetic? Or could it be something they’ve learned over time?
Researchers at the University of Portsmouth in the UK wanted to find out. In 2017, they conducted a study with 24 dogs of various breeds and ages to determine whether this behavior was innate or learned. Each dog was separated from its owner by about a meter and subjected to different distractions, including food. The team closely monitored the dogs’ facial expressions to see how they responded when the owners paid attention to them versus when they were distracted.
A Response to Attention
The results of the study showed that the dogs' facial expressions changed depending on whether their owners were paying attention to them. When the owners focused on the dogs, the dogs displayed more expressive facial gestures, including raising their eyebrows and sticking out their tongues. These actions were found to grab the attention of their owners, leading researchers to conclude that dogs use facial expressions like these to get our attention.
In other words, when your dog looks up at you with those sad eyes, it’s not just a coincidence—it’s a deliberate attempt to engage you, especially when you’re eating.
Your Dog Wants Your Attention
As pack animals, dogs naturally look to their human companions for leadership, protection, and comfort. This emotional connection is at the heart of why dogs give you their best "sad puppy eyes" routine. They want your attention because they thrive on the bond they share with you. And when you're eating, it’s likely that your dog wants you to share that moment with them too.
Those sad puppy eyes can also be a clever invitation for your dog to score some of your food. Dogs know that showing a bit of vulnerability and affection can sometimes get them a tasty bite of your meal.
A Fond Relationship
Rather than viewing those sad puppy eyes as manipulation or deception, it’s best to see them as a sign of a loving bond between you and your dog. They love you and want your attention. Just remember, while it’s okay to give your dog a little extra love, it’s important not to overindulge them with human food. Feeding your dog healthy, balanced meals—like Nextrition cold-pressed food—is the best way to keep them happy and healthy. We also recommend our chicken or beef tummy treats for those times where you just can’t say no to those puppy dog eyes.
