It is a real shame dogs can’t talk. Can you imagine how wonderful it would be if these magnificent animals were able to tell us what they think and feel? Unfortunately, that’s not the case. However, our best friends have found different ways to connect with us, the humans. While some are clumsier, certain breeds are pretty intelligent and know their ways around us. Among those is the Australian Shepherd.
The Australian Shepherd communicates with humans using barking and body language. The Aussies are brilliant dogs. They know what they want, and they find ways to tell us. You, as an owner, have to observe and listen. However, certain acts can mean more than one thing. In this article, we’re going to discuss the possible meaning of your Aussie staring at you.
Why Is My Australian Shepherd Staring At Me?
Australian Shepherds often stare at their owners and other people. This is a part of their herding instinct, as they are trying to gauge the person’s movements and communicate with humans. Often Australian Shepherds stare at their owners when they want something, they want to confront, when they are expressing love, when they feel confused, and when they are waiting for guidance.
It is up to you to figure out what the look means and act accordingly. Your pup is either asking or trying to tell you something.
I have done some research and consulted some vets and canine behaviorists. According to them, your Aussie staring at you might be caused by several different reasons. These are the most common things making your pup gawk at you:
1. The Australian Shepherd desires something
If your pet is looking at you while whining, it wants something. By this, the dog is trying to tell you what it wants. Of course, it is up to you to determine what it is. This is the most obvious reason your Aussie is staring at you. Whether your dog is hungry, wants to go in the yard, or it’s something entirely else, it will gawk at you until it gets it.
Besides the eyes, canine behaviorists suggest that you also need to observe your Aussie’s tail, ears, and entire body posture. Pay attention to this behavior soon. If not, the whining will turn into barking. Aussies are determined to get what they want. However, this stare might also mean that the dog asks if it can have the dinner leftovers. The Aussie shows submission and appreciation for the leader by gazing at you.
2. The Aussie wants to confront
If your Australian Shepherd gives you a stern look, and you can hear a growl simultaneously, then the dog is trying to confront you. There’s a reason your dog sees you or someone else as a possible threat. Whether you’re trying to take something away, or there’s an outsider nearby, your Aussie will try and communicate that with you. Other signs that your dog feels threatened are a tucked tail, still posture, and a stiff body.
Aussies are not naturally aggressive. However, they were bred to be herding dogs. As such, they sometimes have to show dominance. That’s why it is essential to socialize these dogs as early as possible. This kind of behavior will be minimalized with socialization. If your Aussie gives you this kind of look, you should retreat and leave the dog to cool off. Instead of confronting the pup, try to figure out the reason for its anger.
3. The Aussie Shepherd is expressing love
The Aussie is a beautiful dog. They possess two endless things: stamina and love. Your Australian Shepherd will love everybody in the household. However, there will always be one special person in the dog’s heart. One actual owner, whom the Aussie will love unconditionally. If you are this person, the dog will follow you everywhere and try to please you in every possible way.
Aussies are very affectionate. Your dog will try to show you its love and gratitude in numerous ways. Whether it will hand you its favorite toy or will cuddle with you on the couch, your pup will express its feelings. One of the ways of an Aussie telling you it loves you is staring at you. Or, more specifically, gazing at your eyes. This look means the two of you have created a unique, unbreakable bond.
4. The Aussie is being confused
For your Aussie, you are the leader. These dogs observe, learn, and follow. So, naturally, when your Aussie feels confused, it will expect directions from you. Whether it was you that confused the dog, or something else, answers will be demanded. If you give an unclear command or the dog can not understand what you’re looking for, it will provide you with a confused gaze. This kind of behavior is typical for old, forgetful Australian Shepherds.
If the dog’s head is tilted on the side and the ears are perked up while it’s gawking at you, there’s confusion in its mind. That means you’ll have to be concise and explain to the Aussie what’s expected of it. These dogs are intelligent and will understand quickly. Bear in mind that confusion might be stressful for your pup. Try to resolve these issues as soon as you notice them.
5. The Aussie is waiting for guidance
This gazing reason is narrowly connected to the previous one. It also comes from the Aussie’s desire to work. These dogs are tireless. They thrive when a job is given to them. So, if this herding expert is staring at you, it might mean that the dog is trying to read your cues. The Aussie always needs to do something. And who else is this lovely dog ask for a task, if not its leader?
You are the alpha in the eyes of your Aussie Shepherd. These dogs are obedient and learn commands quickly. Also, they’re brilliant and eager to learn. You will gain the dog’s trust if you establish yourself as a calm, firm leader. There’s a special bond between the Aussie and its favorite human. The Aussie will follow your lead, whether you’re working or playing. So, a long, thirsty gaze at you might mean that the dog is waiting for guidance.
