Why Does Your Dog Squint at You? Learn What This Means About Them

Do you ever catch your dog squinting at you and wonder why?

According to veterinarian Dr. Alisha Kidwell, “A dog’s eyes are like a roadmap to their health and emotions. Paying attention to changes, like squinting, can help you detect early health issues and keep your pup happy.” 

What’s your dog trying to say by squinting at you? Read on for possible causes, from emotional cues to medical concerns, and learn how to read your dog’s body language and expressive behavior. 

Why does squinting occur in dogs? 

Dogs have mastered the art of nonverbal communication. They talk with their body language and expressive eyes, from subtle head tilts to tail wags. Squinting could be anything from admiration to asking for help; all it takes is understanding and empathy to figure out a meaning. 

Emotional or behavioral causes 

Your dog may not speak your language, but their eyes can tell you a lot if you know how to listen. Squinting can be a sign of contentment, much like when your dog stretches out in their favorite sunny spot or wags their tail with gusto. For example, if a dog squints at you during a snuggle session or while you’re dishing out belly rubs, it’s their way of expressing happiness and affection. 

However, squinting isn’t always about the warm fuzzies. Sometimes, it’s a complex form of communication. For instance, a squint paired with lowered ears and a tucked tail may indicate anxiety, unease, or submission. Dogs are masters of reading the room, and their squint could be a subtle way of diffusing tension, such as humans giving a nervous smile during an awkward meeting. 

Environmental factors 

Before you start overanalyzing your dog’s emotions, consider their environment. Dogs are curious creatures, sticking their noses (and faces) into everything from dusty corners to grassy fields. It’s no surprise that their eyes may get irritated sometimes. 

Squinting can often be a quick reaction to environmental irritants like pollen, dust, stray blades of grass, or dander. Check for visible irritants if your dog has been exploring the great outdoors and comes back squinting. It could be allergies. 

Medical concerns 

As dogs age, their eyes become vulnerable to canine eye disorders, such as corneal ulcers and glaucoma, which may cause significant discomfort or other health problems. 

Corneal ulcers, for instance, are like paper cuts on the eye — tiny but excruciating. These can happen after eye trauma, such as a playful romp in the backyard that ends with a tree branch to the face. You may notice redness, excessive blinking and squinting, and watery or yellowish discharge. 

A condition known as “dry eye” can also leave your dog’s eyes irritated and itchy, while glaucoma is a sneaky condition that increases pressure in the eyes, causing vision loss. 

Is your dog pawing their face? Do they act sensitive to sunshine or bright indoor lights? Are they persistently squinting? Consult a veterinarian. These are more than quirks — they’re cries for help. 

How can you prevent and address squinting? 

Most of the time, squinting is a harmless, endearing canine quirk. Occasional squinting is no cause for alarm, whether expressing affection, focusing on you, or signaling relaxation. Like humans, dogs have unique mannerisms, and a gentle squint often falls into the adorable category. 

However, remain proactive about your dog’s eye health. Simple practices can help prevent issues before they arise. Combining preventative care with attentiveness will keep your pup happy, healthy, and expressive. 

1. Make eye care a routine. Just as you wouldn’t skip an eye exam, don’t overlook your dog’s. Regular vet checkups can catch conditions like “dry eye” and corneal ulcers early, treating minor problems before they become significant and painful. 

2. Control their environment. Limit irritant exposure by keeping your home clean and checking your dog’s eyes after outdoor time. Rinsing their eyes with a pet-safe saline solution can help wash away dust and debris. 

3. Teach safe play habits. Supervise playtime with new toys and other dogs to prevent eye trauma. Roughhousing is normal for dogs, but it's all fun and games until your pup develops a corneal ulcer. 

4. Consider protective gear. Protective goggles are practical ways to protect dogs prone to eye injuries. Yes, they make them for pups. Think of it as eye insurance for an adventurous canine. 

When should you consult a veterinarian?

Call the professionals if your dog’s squinting seems pain-related or unusual and doesn’t resolve in a day or two. Persistent symptoms like redness, swelling, and discharge are reasons for an immediate vet appointment. 

Sometimes, what seems like a minor irritation can indicate more serious conditions. Infections from minor scratches can escalate, while undiagnosed glaucoma can lead to irreversible damage. When in doubt, err on caution with a vet visit. 

FAQs

Do dogs squint to show affection? 

Absolutely. Dogs often squint during happy, relaxed moments as a way of bonding. It’s comparable to a gentle smile, symbolizing trust and adoration. 

Are dogs happy when they squint? 

Often, yes. A squint accompanied by relaxed body language, like soft ears and a wagging tail, is a sign of contentment. 

Why does my dog squint at me when I talk? 

Dogs are expert listeners, attuned to your moods, tone, and facial expressions. When they squint at you while you talk, they focus on you and try to interpret your mood even if they can’t understand your words. 

References

• IOSR Journals. “A Common Problems of Dog Eyes (a Review.” Academia.edu, 24 July 2021, www.academia.edu/50229225/A_Common_Problems_Of_Dog_Eyes_A_Review.