Short answer: Dogs produce tears for eye lubrication but do not cry emotionally the way humans do. However, a Murata 2022 study found dog tear production DOES increase during reunion with their owner, suggesting some emotional tear signaling. Vocal ‘crying’ (whining) is a real emotional expression.
What you should actually do
- Murata 2022 (Current Biology): owner reunions increased tear volume in dogs, possibly mediated by oxytocin – first evidence of emotion-linked tears.
- Excessive tearing more often signals eye disease: blocked tear ducts, conjunctivitis, distichia, entropion – vet exam if persistent.
- Brown tear stains under the eyes are porphyrins (iron breakdown products in tears) – more visible on white-coated breeds like Maltese, Poodles, Bichons.
- Whining is a real emotional vocalization: pain, attention-seeking, anxiety, excitement, frustration. Context matters.
- Pain whining is often paired with reluctance to move, panting at rest, and changes in posture.
Cultural beliefs about dogs ‘crying’ for emotional reasons predate the science by centuries – the Murata paper is interesting because it provides the first biological evidence for something owners have long described.
If your dog’s eyes are watering more than usual, look for excessive blinking, squinting, rubbing the face, or eye redness – those signal a real eye problem. Pets with constant tear staining can benefit from low-mineral filtered water, daily face wiping, and screening for nasolacrimal duct obstruction.
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⚕️ Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is intended for educational purposes only and does not replace a hands-on veterinary examination. Drug doses depend on your dog’s complete clinical picture, concurrent medications, and the exact product formulation. Always confirm dosing with your veterinarian before administering any medication, and contact a 24-hour veterinary emergency service or animal poison control immediately if you suspect a medication overdose or adverse reaction. Editorial standards: every drug dose published on PuppaDogs is cross-checked against multiple authoritative veterinary references and reviewed by PuppaDogs Veterinary Editorial Team before publication.
