why does my dog stare at me

Dogs stare at their owners for several reasons, the main ones being to express affection, to communicate a need or desire, to observe and understand their owner's actions or emotions, and sometimes because they feel vulnerable and trust their owners for protection. When dogs stare with a relaxed body and wagging tail, it often indicates love and bonding, as mutual gazing releases oxytocin (the "love hormone") in both dog and human, strengthening their relationship. Dogs may also stare to get what they want, such as food, attention, or a walk, since they have learned this behavior gets a response. In some cases, a hard stare can indicate anger or aggression, but typically staring is a way dogs communicate with and read their owners to understand them better. In summary, your dog's stare is usually a sign of affection, communication, or attention-seeking, and it helps build the bond between the two of you.