Ever noticed your dog’s eyes glistening and wondered if they’re feeling what you do when you cry? It’s a pretty touching idea, honestly—especially when those big, soulful eyes seem to echo your own sadness or joy.
Dogs do produce tears, but not for the same emotional reasons as humans. Canine tears mainly keep their eyes clean and protected.
When dogs feel sad, anxious, or just overwhelmed, they show it by whimpering, hiding, seeking cuddles, or acting differently—not by crying actual tears.
Key Takeaways
- Dogs make tears to protect their eyes, not to express emotions
- They show sadness with whimpering, hiding, trembling, or seeking comfort—not with tears
- Excessive tearing usually means medical issues like allergies or eye infections that need a vet
Understanding What It Means When Dogs Cry
Dogs show emotions differently than we do. Their “crying” is more about sounds and body language than tears.
A lot of pet owners get confused about what dog tears actually mean and how dogs really show distress.
Defining Canine Crying Versus Human Crying
Dogs don’t cry emotional tears like humans. We cry when we feel grief, joy, or frustration, and our tears flow as a direct response.
Dogs, though, use vocalisations like whining, whimpering, and howling to communicate their feelings.
They also use body language—lowered tails, pinned-back ears, or submissive postures—when they’re upset.
Knowing these differences helps us respond better to our dogs’ emotional needs. Physical tears in dogs usually mean something medical is up.
The big difference? Purpose and mechanism. Human tears can be emotional or physical, but dog tears are just about eye health.
Common Misconceptions About Dog Tears
Many people think wet eyes mean their dog feels sad. This mix-up can lead to missing what their pet really needs.
Dog tears usually point to medical conditions—allergies, infections, or blocked tear ducts—not emotions.
Eye discharge can signal all sorts of things that need a vet, not just a comforting hug.
Some folks also mistake normal dog sounds for human-like crying, when dogs are just communicating basic needs.
Common myths:
- Wet eyes mean the dog is sad
- Whining always means emotional distress
- Dogs cry tears when left alone
- Tears show guilt or remorse
Dogs express emotions through vocal cues and body language, not tears. Picking up on these signals helps us give better care and worry less about normal dog behaviour.
The Role of Tears in Dog Communication
Tears don’t really play a part in how dogs communicate with us or each other. They lean on scent, body posture, and sounds to show how they’re feeling.
When dogs make tears, it’s their way of dealing with eye discomfort—washing out dust, allergens, or anything else that might hurt their eyes.
Dogs let us know they’re upset with whimpering, barking, or howling. Each noise means something different depending on the situation.
How dogs really communicate:
- Tail movement and position
- Ear positioning
- Facial expressions
- Body posture
- Vocal sounds
If we remember that tears aren’t part of their emotional toolkit, we can focus on the signs that matter. Dogs count on us to notice changes in behaviour, not just watery eyes.
The Science Behind Canine Tear Production
Dogs have a pretty clever tear production system. Their lacrimal glands keep their eyes healthy, not emotional.
Tear Ducts and Lacrimal Glands in Dogs
Dogs make tears with specialised lacrimal glands above each eye. These glands work all the time, building a thin tear film.
Their tear system has a few main parts:
- Upper and lower lacrimal glands that make the tears
- Tear ducts (nasolacrimal ducts) to drain away extra fluid
- Conjunctival goblet cells that add mucus
Dog tears have three layers. Closest to the eye is the mucin layer, then the watery layer for moisture and nutrients, and finally a layer of oils to stop evaporation.
This tear film protects against bacteria and viruses. It also rinses away dust and debris.
Excess tears drain through tiny puncta—little openings that connect to ducts leading to the nose.
How Tear Production Differs From Humans
Dogs don’t have tear ducts just for emotional tears. Human tear production taps into emotional and neurological pathways that dogs simply don’t have.
Humans make three types of tears: basal, reflex, and emotional. Dogs mostly stick to basal and reflex tears for eye care.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Aspect | Dogs | Humans |
|---|---|---|
| Primary function | Eye lubrication and protection | Eye health plus emotional expression |
| Emotional tears | Not scientifically proven | Well-documented response |
| Tear composition | Water, mucus, oils | Similar but includes stress hormones when emotional |
Dogs have a simpler tear system—it’s all about eye health. Their feelings come out in body language and sounds, not tears.
If your dog has watery eyes, it’s probably irritation, allergies, or something medical. The extra moisture is their way of protecting the eye, not letting out emotion.
Human emotional tears have more proteins and stress hormones. Dogs just keep their tear mix steady for cleaning and protecting their eyes.
Why Do Dogs Produce Tears?
Dogs make tears for reasons totally different from ours. Emotions don’t trigger their tears—physical irritation and medical stuff do.
Emotional Stimuli and Dog Tears
Unlike us, dogs don’t cry emotional tears when they’re sad or anxious. Their tear ducts just work differently.
Dog tears are all mechanics, not feelings. Their tear ducts drain liquid toward the back of the nose, so if you see tears rolling down their face, something physical is going on.
When dogs feel sad or frustrated, they show it in other ways:
- Whining or whimpering
- Changes in body language
- Pawing or scratching
- Not wanting to eat
- Withdrawing from activities
People often mistake tears for emotional distress, which can make them miss health problems that need a vet.
Physical Causes: Irritation and Eye Health
Most dog tears happen because of irritation or stuff getting in their eyes. Dust, dirt, pollen, or tiny debris are common culprits.
Active dogs get more stuff in their eyes. If your pup loves digging or exploring, they’re more likely to deal with irritants that cause extra tears.
Eye infections show up with other symptoms besides tears:
- Yellow or green discharge
- Blood in the tears
- Swelling around the eyes
- Lots of blinking
Corneal ulcers can happen when dogs scratch their eyes during play. These little injuries hurt and make the eye water a lot.
Watch for signs like:
- Pawing at the eye
- Squinting or keeping it closed
- Redness around the eye
Conjunctivitis inflames the protective tissue of the eye. The membrane turns red and swollen, with discharge and tears.
Allergies can also make dogs’ eyes water. Food, stuff in the environment, or even household products might set them off.
Epiphora and Other Medical Conditions
Epiphora means excessive tear overflow that leaves visible dampness around a dog’s eyes.
This usually happens when tear ducts get blocked or damaged.
Blocked tear ducts stop normal drainage, so tears spill onto the face.
Lots of things can cause these blockages:
| Cause | Description |
|---|---|
| Rhinitis | Nasal inflammation blocks drainage |
| Sinusitis | Sinus infection affects tear flow |
| Parasites | Internal parasites cause swelling |
| Bone trauma | Facial injuries damage ducts |
Long-term epiphora leads to skin irritation and staining around the eyes.
The fur might even turn reddish or brown after being wet for so long.
If a dog keeps having these issues, a vet needs to figure out the real cause.
Treatment really depends on what’s going on with the tear ducts.
Severe medical conditions like tumours, unusual anatomy, or autoimmune disorders can also make dogs’ eyes produce too many tears.
Some breeds just have more problems with tear ducts because of their face shape.
Flat-faced breeds, for example, deal with this a lot more often.
Emotional Expressions in Dogs
Dogs show how they feel mostly through body language and sounds, not tears like people do.
Learning these signals helps owners spot when their dog feels happy, sad, anxious, or just plain down.
Behavioural Cues: Body Language and Vocalisation
Dog emotions show up in their posture and the sounds they make.
Sad or stressed dogs often droop, pull their ears back, and tuck their tails low.
Happy dogs wag their tails, jump around, and have bright, relaxed faces.
Their bodies look loose and energetic.
Stressed or anxious dogs might show:
- Trembling or shaking
- Hiding behind furniture or people
- Avoiding direct eye contact
- Panting when not warm
- Pacing or restless movement
Canine emotions show up in subtle facial changes too.
Dogs have muscles around their eyes that help them make puppy-dog faces, especially when they want to communicate with people.
Destructive behaviour can mean a dog’s really stressed or upset.
Chewing furniture, scratching doors, or licking the same spot over and over are all signs.
Some dogs get clingy when they’re upset, always sticking close to their humans.
Others might just go quiet and withdraw.
Vocal Signs Versus Tearful Displays
Dogs cry with their voices—not with tears.
Whining, whimpering, and soft barks are their main ways to “cry.”
Whining usually means:
- They want attention
- They feel anxious or stressed
- They’re uncomfortable
- They’re excited or waiting for something
Whimpering can signal pain, fear, or submission.
Puppies do it more than adults, especially if they’re separated from their mom or feeling cold.
Unlike humans, dogs don’t shed emotional tears—their tears just keep their eyes clean and moist.
If a dog’s eyes are really watery, it’s usually allergies, an infection, or blocked tear ducts—not sadness.
High-pitched sounds and body language together paint the real picture of how a dog feels.
Their “cry” might sound heartbreaking, but it’s just how they talk to us, not actual weeping.
Medical and Environmental Causes of Tearing
Dogs’ watery eyes usually come from health issues like infections or blocked ducts.
Some breeds just have a higher risk because of their face shape.
Things like pollen and dust can also make sensitive dogs’ eyes water more.
Eye Infections and Irritants
Eye infections are a common reason for dogs to have watery eyes.
Bacteria or viruses cause inflammation, so the body makes more tears to flush out the germs.
Conjunctivitis (or pink eye) causes redness and swelling around the eyes.
Dogs with this usually have yellow or green discharge and blink a lot.
Blocked tear ducts can cause epiphora, where tears just overflow onto the face.
This creates constant dampness and can even irritate the skin.
Environmental factors matter too:
- Pollen in spring and summer
- Dust inside or outside
- Smoke from cigarettes or fires
- Chemical fumes from cleaning products
Allergies to these things make eyes water as a way to wash out irritants.
The tears try to protect the eyes from deeper damage.
Breed-Related Factors Affecting Excess Tearing
Some breeds just have more trouble with tearing because of their face shape.
Brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs have shallow eye sockets, so their eyes are more exposed.
Flat-faced breeds often deal with:
- Tear ducts that aren’t in the right spot
- Less effective blinking
- More exposure to dust and pollen
Dogs with big, prominent eyes (Boston Terriers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels) get injured more easily.
Their eyes stick out, so it’s easier for plants or debris to scratch them.
Long-haired breeds like Shih Tzus and Maltese can get hair in their eyes, which keeps irritating them and makes them tear up a lot.
Some breeds are just genetically prone to tear duct issues.
Their eye structure makes epiphora or drainage problems more likely throughout their lives.
Supporting Your Dog’s Emotional and Eye Health
Caring for your dog means knowing when watery eyes are a medical problem and when they’re just a normal response.
It also means supporting their mental health with routines and positive attention.
When to Seek Veterinary Advice
Watch your dog’s eyes for warning signs that need a vet’s help.
Too much tearing, especially with other symptoms, often points to a health issue.
Call your vet right away if you see:
- Thick, coloured eye discharge
- Constant rubbing or pawing at the face
- Red, swollen, or irritated eyes
- Cloudy or hazy pupils
- Pain when blinking or closing their eyes
Eye irritation from things like pollen or dust usually clears up fast.
If tearing lasts more than a day, though, it’s time for a professional check.
Flat-faced breeds, like pugs and bulldogs, get eye problems more often because of their facial structure.
A vet exam helps diagnose and treat eye issues before they get worse or affect vision.
Ways to Care for Your Dog’s Emotional Well-being
Getting how dogs show emotions lets you support them better.
They use body language, sounds, and behaviour changes—not tears—to show how they feel.
Daily emotional care can look like:
- Keeping routines so your dog feels safe
- Regular walks and play to burn off stress
- Positive feedback during training or play
- Quiet spaces for them to relax when overwhelmed
Spotting signs of anxiety—like panting, pacing, or withdrawing—helps you step in early.
Bonding activities like gentle grooming, playing, or just hanging out make a big difference for their emotional health.
Dogs are emotional creatures who thrive with understanding and care.
When you meet both their physical and emotional needs, you set them up for a happy, healthy life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dogs don’t express feelings the same way people do, and watery eyes usually mean a health issue, not sadness.
Knowing the difference between tears of sadness and tears from eye problems helps you care for your dog better.
Do our furry friends shed tears like we do when they feel upset?
Dogs don’t shed emotional tears like humans.
Their tear ducts work differently than ours do.
When a dog feels sad or upset, you’ll notice it in their behaviour—maybe whimpering, acting withdrawn, or just being less playful.
They feel sadness, sure, but they don’t cry tears the way humans do.
Can you tell when your pooch is truly sad by the moisture in their eyes?
Watery eyes almost never mean a dog’s sad.
Dogs show sadness with whimpers, protests, or those classic puppy-dog eyes, not tears.
If you see moist eyes, it’s usually for physical reasons—tears keep their eyes healthy.
Truly sad dogs act different: they might play less, eat less, or want more comfort from you.
What should we look out for to know if our dogs are in pain or distress?
Dogs mourning the loss of a companion may become lethargic, lose interest in activities, or whimper more frequently. These are clearer signs than any eye moisture.
Physical signs of distress include changes in eating habits or sleep patterns. Sometimes, dogs get clingy or just want to be left alone.
Vocal cues like whining or odd barking often mean they’re uncomfortable. Notice if they stop enjoying their usual routine or favourite games.
Are there any specific signs that indicate our pups are feeling emotional?
Dogs use body language to show how they feel. A tucked tail, flattened ears, or hunched posture can mean sadness or anxiety.
Facial expressions matter too. Over time, dogs have developed muscles that help them pull faces that look a lot like ours.
Some dogs get destructive when they’re upset. Others might go quiet or keep to themselves.
There are many reasons why dogs might have watery eyes: allergies, ulcers, infections, debris, and others. These are medical issues, not emotional ones.
Blocked tear ducts can cause overflow. Some breeds just have more eye issues thanks to their face shape.
Dust, pollen, or even smoke can bother their eyes. If the watering keeps up, it’s probably time to check in with your vet.
How can we best support our four-legged companions when they seem down or troubled?
Watch for changes in your dog’s usual behavior. Sometimes it’s subtle, but noticing those shifts lets you catch problems early.
Offer gentle comfort and a bit of reassurance if your dog seems anxious. Still, if they’re just seeking attention, try not to encourage that too much.
Keep routines steady when you can. Most dogs really do feel safer with familiar schedules and activities.
