When your dog raises its eyebrows and gives you those irresistible “puppy dog eyes,” it’s more than just a cute accident—it’s likely a deliberate communication. Experts say this eyebrow movement is a key part of how dogs interact with humans, and it’s rooted in both evolution and our preferences.
Dogs Evolved to Make “Puppy Dog Eyes”
Contrary to popular belief, dogs didn’t always have the ability to raise their eyebrows in such a dramatic way. This trait has evolved over thousands of years since dogs were domesticated around 33,000 years ago. Interestingly, wolves—the wild ancestors of dogs—don’t share this eyebrow-raising ability, suggesting that it could be an adaptation specifically developed to communicate with humans.
A study by the University of Portsmouth found that dogs’ eyebrow muscles have developed to allow them to make their eyes appear larger and more expressive. This behavior likely evolved because humans favored and responded to dogs that could make these puppy eyes, possibly out of a nurturing instinct.
A Sign of Affection and Communication
When your dog raises its eyebrows, it’s often signaling something quite specific. Experts suggest that this movement triggers a nurturing response in humans, similar to how we might react to a sad or pleading expression. Dogs may have learned that showing their “puppy dog eyes” often leads to affection or care from humans. As a result, they may have developed this ability over time to elicit a comforting response, reinforcing the bond between dogs and their owners.
Dr. Bridget Waller’s study supports this idea, noting that dogs who exhibited this facial movement more frequently were rehomed faster from shelters, highlighting its role in human-dog interactions. According to Dr. Juliane Kaminski, a psychologist at the University of Portsmouth, “This movement increases paedomorphism (the appearance of youthfulness) and resembles an expression humans produce when sad. Therefore, its production in dogs may trigger a nurturing response.”
What It Means for Your Dog
So, the next time your dog looks up at you with those soulful, raised eyebrows, they might not just be looking for attention—they could be signaling their need for affection or a cuddle. The evolution of this behavior has made it a powerful tool in the emotional connection between dogs and their human companions.
In short, your dog’s puppy eyes are more than just a cute quirk—they’re a strategic move in the ongoing evolution of the human-dog relationship.
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