How To Get Rid Of Dog Eye Boogers

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Does your dog ever use their eyes to tell you they want a treat or a cuddle? Well, a new study has found that our clever pups use their eyes to communicate with their owners, particularly when it's regarding food or wanting attention.

Research by Pet Munchies and K9 Magazine found that almost two thirds of dog owners say their pets use a certain 'look' to communicate their needs, instead of barking, whining or nudging their owners.

The team behind the study asked 1,100 dog owners about how they interact with their four-legged friends. While it's not uncommon for dogs to use 'puppy eyes' to get what they want, the study also found that dogs can use intense eye contact when they are expressing their concern over the welfare of humans.

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Research also found that...

39% said their pets stood at the door to indicate they wanted to go out
7.2% of owners explained that their pets steal things when they want their owner's attention
40% of owners would like to be able to ask their pets what they could do to make them happier
A further 19% wished they could asked their pets if they were feeling unwell
18% said they would love to ask their dogs about their past

K9 Magazine publisher Ryan O'Meara, who also owns three dogs, said: "Learning how to 'talk dog' is extremely important. It's crucial to understand what our dogs are trying to tell us when they communicate with us.

"One of the ways dogs have always communicated with humans is through studying our eyes. Over the decades, dogs have learnt to learn to judge our mood and character, for example, by staring at us. This is a dog's way of trying to actually talk to us. They know we will understand what they are trying to tell us because as our relationships with dogs have evolved, we have learnt to read their signals as well as they read ours."

cute dog put his face on his knees to the man and smiling from the hands scratching her ear

Nataba Getty Images

Ryan also explains that dogs are indeed incredibly smart and have used their eyes for decades as a clever way to get what they want from humans. "Over the years, they've extended how they talk to us using their gaze with the evolution of the 'puppy dog eyes' look, which is designed to pull on our heartstring by mimicking the wide-eyed look of babies."

So, the next time your dog is giving you that look, there might be something they want...

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10 of the best dog breeds for small homes

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Bichon Frise

Thanks to their petite size — they typically weigh between 7 and 12 pounds — Bichon Frises are a great choice for small homes. Though they are a playful and energetic breed, according to Pet Guide, they aren't your typical small, yippy dog. Bichon Frises tend to show restraint when it comes to barking.

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Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers make great small space companions. They're small in size, and only require moderate exercise, so there's no need to worry about your lack of a garden, according to Pet Guide.

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Dachshund

These short-legged, long-bodied pups feel right at home in smaller homes, and according to the American Kennel Club, they're one of the spunkiest breeds out there. So if you're looking for a dog with plenty of personality, this is it.

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English Bulldog

English Bulldogs are another breed that won't mind living without a spacious garden. Realtor reports that, once they pass their puppy stage, these low-key canines are happiest lazing around with their owners.

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Pug

Pugs are charming and loving and their short hair means they require little grooming. They also usually weigh under 20 pounds, so they won't take up too much space. And just try to resist that scrunched up little face.

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Great Dane

Yes, Great Danes are pretty ginormous — females can weigh up to 130 pounds, males can weigh up to 200 pounds — but they're the gentlest of giants. These dogs are relatively inactive, and on the quiet side, according to Realtor, so they make great choices for apartments with a little extra space.

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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

These graceful beauties are ideal for people looking for a low maintenance companion. They require just one walk daily, and a weekly brushing, according to Realtor, and they rule the roost with a quiet regality.

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Mastiff

Another massive breed that is surprisingly in tune with small space living, Mastiffs expend so much energy just existing in their giant bodies, that they're one of the mellowest choices, according to Realtor.

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