The role of eye blinking in canine communication

Dogs do not blink randomly—they may use it as a form of social communication, responding to blinks from other dogs. This study provides the first evidence of reciprocal blinking in dogs, meaning they are more likely to blink when they see another dog blink. This suggests blinking plays a role in maintaining social bonds and signaling peaceful intentions. Recognizing these subtle expressions can improve our understanding of canine communication and enhance both dog-dog and human-dog interactions.

Dogs may blink to communicate They tend to blink back when another dog blinks at them, suggesting it serves as a non-verbal social signal.

Blinking could help dogs maintain social bonds and reduce conflict This behaviour may signal non-aggressive, friendly intentions, promoting peaceful interactions.

Dogs, like primates, may synchronize blinks Similar to humans and other species, reciprocal blinking in dogs could strengthen social connections.