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Canine Tears: Understanding How Dogs Express Emotions

Dogs, our loyal companions, often evoke deep emotional connections. Whether you’re playing with your furry friend or simply sharing quiet moments on the couch, there’s a sense of joy in understanding their thoughts. But can dogs cry tears like humans do? Let’s explore this fascinating topic.

Do Dogs Cry Real Tears?

While dogs can feel emotions, their expression differs from ours. Humans shed tears as an emotional response, but dogs don’t cry in the same way. Here’s why:

Moist Eyes: Depending on the breed, dogs may have some moisture in their eyes. However, this isn’t necessarily emotional crying. Unlike humans, dogs’ tear production isn’t linked to strong emotions. Their eyes function differently, and this natural moisture occurs in all dogs.

Whining as Expression: Instead of tears, dogs express their emotions through whining. Whining can mean various things, from signaling a need (like wanting to go outside) to anxiety when sensing your departure. Consistent training can help reduce excessive whining.

Health Signals: Sometimes, dogs whine due to illness or injury. If you notice unusual behavior, such as whining while sitting or lying down, consult a veterinarian promptly.

Why Do Dogs “Cry”?

Dogs have tear ducts, essential for maintaining eye moisture. Tear ducts drain tear secretion into their mouth and throat. However, excessive tearing—known as epiphora—can occur due to various reasons:

Blocked Tear Ducts: Some breeds, especially those with flat faces like Pugs and Pitbulls, are prone to epiphora. Their tear ducts may become blocked, leading to tears flowing down their cheeks.

Causes of Epiphora: Similar to humans, dogs can experience eye discharge due to sinusitis, foreign objects, or conjunctivitis. Congenital defects or conditions like ectropion (outward-turning eyelids) can also cause epiphora.

When to Be Concerned: While mild epiphora is usually harmless, persistent excessive tearing warrants attention. Colored discharge, redness, or inflammation may indicate underlying issues. Prompt veterinary evaluation is crucial.

Tear Stains and Solutions

Tear stains often accompany epiphora. These reddish-brown streaks appear under the eyes, affecting your dog’s appearance. Here’s what you can do:

Check Diet: Allergies can contribute to tear staining. Review your dog’s food—switching to a natural brand without problematic ingredients (like corn or wheat) may help.

Water Quality: Consider the quality of water your dog drinks. While not directly related to tear production, poor water quality can exacerbate staining. Opt for distilled or purified water.

Remember, dogs don’t cry like humans, but their unique expressions reveal their emotions. Understanding their needs and seeking timely veterinary care ensures a healthy and happy furry companion.

Image credit: Shutterstock

Refference content:

https://pethelpful.com/dogs/Can-Dogs-Cry-Tears-Like-Humans
https://paradepets.com/dogs/do-dogs-cry
https://a-z-animals.com/blog/can-dogs-cry-what-do-their-tears-mean/

Canine Tears: Do Dogs Shed Emotional Tears Like Humans?