Whale Eye vs. Side Eye in Dogs: Understanding Your Dog’s Subtle Signals

Dogs are always communicating with us, even when they aren’t barking, wagging their tails, or jumping up to greet us. One of the more subtle but crucial ways dogs express themselves is through their eyes. Two terms often used when discussing canine body language are “whale eye” and “side eye”, sometimes jokingly referred to as “stink eye”.

While these expressions may look similar at first glance, they convey very different emotions. Understanding the difference is key to recognising when your dog is feeling anxious, annoyed, or just being a bit cheeky.

What Is Whale Eye in Dogs?

Whale eye is a term used in dog behaviour to describe when a dog turns its head away but keeps its eyes fixed on something, causing the whites (sclera) of their eyes to be exposed. This often happens when a dog is feeling uncomfortable, anxious, or even threatened.

It’s called “whale eye” because of the way whales’ eyes sometimes appear when they move their heads but keep their gaze locked on something. In dogs, this is an important warning sign that they are feeling uneasy and may escalate to more defensive behaviours if their discomfort continues.

Common Situations Where Dogs Show Whale Eye:

• When they are being hugged or restrained – Many dogs don’t enjoy being hugged as it can feel restrictive and uncomfortable. If a dog turns its head away but keeps its eye on you, showing the white of their eye, it’s a clear sign they’d rather not be in that situation.
• During grooming or vet visits – If a dog feels uncomfortable or stressed while being handled, they may show whale eye.
• When they feel cornered or trapped – If a dog is backed into a corner, under furniture, or in an unfamiliar place, they may show whale eye as a signal of discomfort.
• When guarding food, toys, or other valued resources – Some dogs will show whale eye if they feel possessive over a bone, toy, or food bowl and don’t want anyone getting too close.
• Before an aggressive reaction – Whale eye is often a precursor to growling, lip curling, or even snapping if the dog feels its warning signals are ignored.

What Does Whale Eye Mean?

If your dog is showing whale eye, it’s important to recognise that they are feeling uneasy. This is their way of saying, “I don’t like this, and I’d rather not be in this situation.”

Ignoring whale eye can lead to further stress, and if a dog feels trapped, they may escalate their behaviour to more obvious warnings, such as growling or snapping. Respecting their body language and giving them space can help prevent negative interactions.

What Is Side Eye (or Stink Eye) in Dogs?

Side eye, sometimes playfully called “stink eye”, is when a dog looks at you from the side without turning their whole head, often giving off an unimpressed or cheeky expression. Unlike whale eye, which is a stress signal, side eye is often more about a dog expressing mild annoyance, disapproval, or even playfulness.

Side eye doesn’t always expose as much white in the eyes as whale eye does, and it is often accompanied by relaxed body language rather than tension.

Common Situations Where Dogs Show Side Eye:

• When they are being dramatic – Some dogs will give you side eye if they feel they’re being unfairly treated (e.g., if you take away a toy, stop petting them, or don’t share your food).
• When they are unimpressed – If you dress your dog in a silly costume or make them wait too long for a treat, they might throw you a side glance of disapproval.
• When they are up to no good – Some dogs will give side eye when they’ve just stolen food off the counter or are doing something they know they shouldn’t be doing. It’s often a “Did you see that?” kind of look.
• When they are playing – Some dogs use side eye during playtime as part of their body language, especially when initiating a chase or being cheeky.

What Does Side Eye Mean?

Side eye is more about attitude than stress. It’s not necessarily a warning sign but rather a way for a dog to express its feelings in a subtle (or sometimes very obvious) way. It’s usually harmless and can even be funny, especially when dogs exaggerate their expressions.

How to Tell the Difference Between Whale Eye and Side Eye

While both whale eye and side eye involve a dog looking sideways, the context and accompanying body language make all the difference.

What to Do if Your Dog Shows Whale Eye

If your dog is displaying whale eye, it’s important to take their discomfort seriously. Here’s what you can do:

1. Give them space – If a dog is feeling cornered or anxious, back off and let them move away if possible.
2. Stop what you’re doing – If you’re hugging, restraining, or handling them in a way they don’t like, respect their boundaries and stop.
3. Look at the bigger picture – Consider what’s happening around them. Are they in a stressful environment? Is there another dog or person making them uncomfortable?
4. Avoid punishing warnings – If a dog is giving whale eye, growling, or showing other warning signs, punishing them for it can make them feel more threatened. Instead, address the root cause of their discomfort.
5. Work on positive associations – If your dog shows whale eye during grooming or handling, use treats and gradual desensitisation to help them feel more comfortable over time.

When to Worry About Side Eye

In most cases, side eye is harmless and just part of your dog’s personality. However, if you notice your dog giving side eye with tense body language, a stiff posture, or a frozen expression, it could be a sign they’re feeling uncomfortable or threatened.

For example, if a child is interacting with a dog and the dog suddenly gives hard side eye while freezing in place, it’s best to intervene and give the dog some space. Understanding when side eye is playful versus when it’s a subtle warning can help prevent negative interactions.

Conclusion

Both whale eye and side eye are ways dogs use their eyes to communicate with us, but they mean very different things. Whale eye is a serious warning sign of stress or discomfort, while side eye is often more about attitude, mild annoyance, or playfulness.

By paying close attention to your dog’s overall body language and the situation they’re in, you can better understand what they’re feeling and respond in a way that keeps them comfortable and happy.

If you’re ever unsure about your dog’s behaviour, or if they frequently display whale eye in certain situations, Jordan Dog Training can help! Our experienced trainers can guide you in reading your dog’s signals and building their confidence through positive, force-free training methods.

Need help understanding your dog’s body language?

📞 Contact Jordan Dog Training today! We’re here to help you and your dog communicate better and build a stronger bond.