We all love our dogs. They’re our best friends, our cuddle buddies, and our biggest cheerleaders through the hardships of our lives. But let’s be honest–sometimes, our dogs seem to have a way of getting exactly what they want. Ever wonder if they learned Pavlov’s tricks?
The truth is, dogs are smart. Really smart. And if you’ve ever caved into those big, sad puppy-dog eyes or found yourself handing over treats without realizing why, you might be under the influence of your dog’s gatekeep, gaslight, girlboss mindset. Let’s break down some ways your dog might be outsmarting you (and why you secretly love it).
Those Pleading, Begging Puppy-Dog Eyes
Dogs have mastered the art of looking utterly heartbroken whenever they want something. Scientists have even found that dogs evolved extra muscle fibers around their eyes and mouths that allow them to portray facial expressions that tug on your heartstrings. These muscles allow your dog to raise their eyebrows, a function absent in their wolf ancestors, as well as give them the ability to produce sharp, snappy barks.
If you’ve ever been about to eat a snack and suddenly felt an overwhelming sense of guilt from the pleading gaze of your recently fed pup, you’re not alone. You didn’t really want that last bite of pizza, right? Your dog knows that. And now it’s theirs.
The “I’ll Ask Dad Behind Your Back”
For the D.I.N.K.s out there, is your dog getting multiple meals? Because they might be taking advantage of a communication loophole, a.k.a. lack thereof.
Your dog knows exactly how to work the system. Here’s their devious plan:
Mom gets home from work.
I go for walkies
Mom feeds me dinner before Dad gets home.
Dad gets home while mom cooks human food (must beg later for an efficient three dinners).
I beg for dinner from Dad. He caves without double-checking with Mom!
Success! Two meals.
[Opt.] Sit at Mom’s feet, staring soulfully in her eyes, asking for a delicious morsel of her dinner.
We believe in you; resist it!
I’m Sorry. (I’m Not Actually Sorry)
Every dog owner has experienced the guilty dog look. Ears back, tail low, eyes squinted. It’s a classic move that convinces you your dog feels bad for their misdeeds, whether they’ve unrolled an entire toilet paper roll or spread trash across the house.
Of course, our master manipulators don’t feel sorry. Studies show that dogs often display “guilt” simply because they know it defuses the situation. In other words, they know that sad puppy = doting, forgiving parents. Let's face it, it works every time.
Deny, Deny, Deny
Ever notice how your dog suddenly forgets their own name when you call them inside from the yard, but miraculously hears a treat bad crinkle from three rooms away? Definitely not a coincidence.
Dogs, especially smart ones, can be very stubborn. Our pets have an impressive ability to selectively tune into sounds that benefit them while ignoring commands that don’t. “Come inside? No, thanks, I didn’t hear that. Wait! Snacks? I’m on my way!”
The “My Legs Don’t Work” Approach
Some dogs take manipulating you to the next level by pretending they need extra help when they really don’t (full circle moment). Ever seen your dog refuse to jump onto the couch even though they’ve done it a hundred times before? Or pretend they can’tmove unless you carry them?
They’re not struggling. They heard your parents telling stories of pulling child you, faking sleep, out of the car and carrying you inside, and felt inspired. Your dog has learned that if they act like they need help, you’ll dote on them more. Congratulations, your mastermind has you wrapped around their dew claw.
The Good Boy/Girl Paradigm
The most effective manipulation technique is simply being the best dog ever. Your pup showers you with love, obeys commands (when they want to), and knows exactly how to brighten your day. And in return, you spoil them endlessly with treats, belly rubs, and prime real estate on your bed.
They know what they’re doing. And honestly? We wouldn’t have it any other way.
