Is a Dog Covering Its Face Shy?

Canines and humans are both evolving, yet many dog behaviors persist over time. Take, for instance, the action we're discussing today: covering one's face. What does a dog's facewiping behavior actually convey? To understand this, we must consider the context in which it occurs.

1. Cleaning the Face

Many owners overlook the fact that a dog's paws are its primary grooming tools. Especially after a meal or a drink, dogs often wipe their faces to clean off any residual water or food particles around their mouths and cheeks. This is a natural instinct. Imagine having sticky substances on your face; wouldn't you try to wipe them away?

Occasional facewiping is normal, and some dogs may even develop a habit. However, if this behavior occurs frequently, particularly after eating or drinking, it might indicate discomfort around the eyes.

2. Emotional Expression

Dogs may not express a wide range of emotions, but they do use facewiping as a means to convey feelings. However, dogs themselves don't inherently understand that covering their faces is a sign of embarrassment. Many dogs may cover their faces out of instinct due to scolding from their owners when they did so in the past. This is an emotional response.

Some dogs may also cover their faces when praised, which is all tied to the owner's guidance. Just like teaching a dog to shake hands, the dog doesn't know what the gesture means; it simply knows it must perform the action in that context.

3. Obedience

When you make eye contact with your dog, they will usually break the gaze after about ten to fifteen seconds. Subtle behaviors like facewiping can be a way for dogs that are particularly compliant with their owners to avoid direct eye contact. This is a strategy to avoid confrontation. It's also wise to avoid prolonged eye contact with stray dogs, as it can be unsettling for both parties.

4. Special Circumstances

As mentioned earlier, dogs may wipe their faces if they feel discomfort. If there are fleas, mites, or lice around their eyes, they will use their paws to scratch the area to alleviate pain and itching.

Entropion, a common eye condition, can cause dogs to excessively wipe their eyes. The eyelids may become red, swollen, and itchy. While scratching can temporarily relieve the itching, it can worsen the condition.

Therefore, having an Elizabethan collar on hand is crucial. Always follow medical advice for treatment.