Can Dogs Cry Tears When Upset?
Pet owners often wonder if their dogs cry tears when they feel sad or distressed. While dogs do experience a range of emotions, scientific evidence suggests that dogs do not shed tears from emotion the same way humans do. Instead, dogs express their feelings through vocalizations and body language. Let's explore what science says about dogs and tears.
Understanding Canine Tear Production
Dogs have tear ducts just like humans, but their primary purpose is physiological, not emotional. These ducts help:
- Keep the eyes moist
- Remove debris or irritants from the eye surface
- Protect against infections
So, while you might see watery eyes in your dog, it's typically due to physical reasons rather than sadness.
Reasons Why Dogs Might Have Watery Eyes
Several medical and environmental factors can cause your dog’s eyes to water:
- Irritation from dust, pollen, hair, or foreign particles
- Allergies due to food, medication, or environmental triggers
- Blocked tear ducts, a condition common in flat-faced breeds
- Eye infections that might be bacterial, fungal, or viral
- Injuries to the eye or surrounding areas
- Chronic conditions like dry eye or glaucoma
- Ingrown or misdirected eyelashes causing discomfort
If your dog exhibits symptoms like redness, swelling, yellow or bloody discharge, squinting, or pawing at the eyes, you should consult a veterinarian promptly.
Do Dogs Cry Emotional Tears?
Emotional crying in humans involves tear production as a direct result of feelings such as sadness, grief, or intense joy. Most animals, including dogs, do not cry in this way. However, a 2022 study published in Current Biology found that dogs produced more tears during emotional reunions with their owners. Researchers used the Schirmer tear test to measure tear volume before and after these reunions.
The findings suggest that oxytocin, a hormone that strengthens social bonding, may influence tear production in emotionally charged moments. However, experts caution that this does not definitively prove dogs cry emotional tears like humans. Tear volume can vary due to many factors, and more research is needed.
How Dogs Express Emotions Without Tears
Dogs are expressive animals. While they don't cry with tears, they communicate sadness, stress, or need through:
- Vocalizations such as whining, whimpering, and howling
- Body language like tail tucking, drooping ears, or avoiding eye contact
- Behavior changes such as decreased playfulness or appetite
These cues are reliable indicators of a dog's emotional state and should be monitored by owners.
Signs Your Dog Might Be Emotionally Upset
Common signs of sadness or mental distress in dogs include:
- Lethargy or sleeping more than usual
- Lack of appetite
- Reduced interest in play or walks
- Withdrawing from interaction
- Increased vocalization
If you observe any of these signs, offer comfort, maintain a routine, and seek veterinary advice if symptoms continue.
How to Care for a Dog With Watery Eyes
If your dog has watery eyes but you don't observe signs of emotional distress, take these steps:
- Gently clean around the eyes using a warm, damp cloth or pet-safe wipe
- Discourage eye rubbing by using socks or an e-collar
- Trim long hair around the eyes to reduce irritation
- Reduce exposure to potential allergens in the home and outdoors
- Use quality pet shampoos designed to minimize tear stains
Persistent tearing, discharge, or swelling should always be evaluated by a veterinarian to rule out infections or other conditions.
The Emotional Connection Between Humans and Dogs
There's no doubt that dogs are emotionally intelligent and form strong bonds with humans. They respond to human emotions and display empathy. This deep bond might lead some to wonder if dogs can also cry from overwhelming emotions. While some preliminary research suggests this could be possible, it's not yet confirmed by broad scientific consensus.
Conclusion
While dogs have tear ducts and may shed tears, this behavior is usually due to physical reasons such as irritation or eye problems. The idea that dogs can cry out of sadness the way humans do remains largely unproven. However, dogs clearly express emotions in other meaningful ways — through their voices, bodies, and behaviors. Understanding these signs helps us care for them more compassionately and effectively.
