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What Does a Dog's 'Guilty Look' Really Mean? The Answer Will Surprise Many Owners
25.02.2023 09:47
Updated: 14.04.2023 07:48
Many people notice the "guilty look" of a dog. It usually appears after the pet has done something wrong.
Thus, the eyes of a four-legged friend often become “sad” after the pet has torn or knocked over something, and the owner has seen it.
But don't think that a "guilty look" really means that the dog is ashamed.
Most likely, the dog is showing completely different emotions.
Do dogs feel guilty?
It is worth emphasizing right away that pets are unlikely to have a sense of shame.
This can be explained very simply: a dog’s idea of “good” and “bad” does not coincide with human moral principles.
You shouldn't count on the dog being ashamed of its "antics". Firstly, the emotion itself is very complex.
Secondly, the pet most likely simply does not understand that he has done something bad.
Real Dog Emotions
But the dog may well notice the connection between some of its actions and punishments from the owner.
Therefore, a pet “caught red-handed” begins to prepare for a response from a person.
The “guilty look” in this situation does not mean a manifestation of guilt, but fear.
There is another explanation. Sad eyes are a defensive reaction. The dog is trying to demonstrate its "defenselessness" so that no one will touch it.
Thus, attempts to shame a dog for "wrong" actions are pointless. But punishments are also undesirable. Training and education are more suitable options.
