According to popular belief, you should not look into the eyes of an unfamiliar dog - you will bring trouble.
And there is a grain of truth in this. We explain why you really shouldn't stare into the eyes of street dogs.
The sign is explained very simply: all animals, including dogs, perceive a close look as aggression.
People have known this since ancient times, hence the belief that meeting the gaze of a stray dog is a sign of trouble.
As for domestic dogs, eye contact with their owner is the most important means of communication.
A domestic dog suffers if its owner does not look it in the eyes. So you can and should look your dog in the eyes.