Why do cats and dogs look us in the eye?

Isn't it odd how so many other animals—birds and mammals at least—focus on the eyes of another individual? It's as if they're trying to read our mind or intentions, or predict what we might do next or how we might treat them. read more

Cats look us in the eye because it is their way of showing affection. For dogs it is a sign of trust and love. If a dog looks away from you, it is afraid or trying to show submission. read more

They do gaze into my eyes and establish eye contact as often as my dogs do. One of my cats will lay there and gaze into my eyes with pure pleasure when I rub his stomach, very similar to a dog. Another cat of mine will look into my eyes when I ask for him to perform a trick rather than just stare at the food in my hand. read more

Whoever posted that has been watching too many movies. Wolves do not look humans in the eyes nor do they have any direct companionship with humans. read more

This is nice answer to how dogs read us, but as you say, dogs look at our face, and gestures and posture, not quite directly to our eyes. – Esa Paulasto Jan 4 '14 at 19:39 I think it's worth noting that dominance comes into play with the subject of eye contact. read more