Currently, experimental evidence suggests that dogs don't feel sorry in the way humans do; their "guilty look" is likely a response to being scolded by their owners.
While many dog owners readily attribute feelings of guilt and remorse to their canine companions, particularly after they've misbehaved, the scientific understanding of canine emotions is more nuanced. That seemingly apologetic "guilty look" – lowered head, averted gaze, tucked tail – is commonly interpreted as an expression of sorrow, but research indicates a different explanation.
Understanding the "Guilty Look"
Instead of demonstrating genuine remorse, dogs appear to be reacting to cues from their owners. When an owner is upset, particularly after discovering evidence of misbehavior (e.g., a chewed-up shoe), they often exhibit specific body language and vocal tones that the dog has learned to associate with punishment or displeasure.
- Association Learning: Dogs are masters of association. They quickly learn to connect certain actions (chewing a shoe) with specific consequences (the owner's anger).
- Response to Scolding: The "guilty look" is likely a learned behavior developed to appease the owner and avoid further negative consequences. The dog is essentially saying, "I see you're upset, and I'm adopting a submissive posture to try and diffuse the situation."
The Experimental Evidence
Alexandra Horowitz's research, cited in the reference information, demonstrated that the "guilty look" was more strongly correlated with the owner's knowledge of the misdeed (and subsequent scolding) than with whether the dog actually committed the act. This supports the theory that the behavior is a response to the owner's cues, not an internal feeling of guilt.
Human Emotions vs. Dog Behavior
It's important to avoid anthropomorphizing dog behavior. While dogs undoubtedly experience a range of emotions, attributing complex feelings like "sorrow" or "guilt" without solid scientific backing can be misleading. It's more accurate to interpret their actions through the lens of learning, association, and social dynamics.
Conclusion
While dogs may not experience "sorrow" in the same way humans do, their capacity for empathy and emotional connection is undeniable. The "guilty look" serves as a powerful example of their ability to read human emotions and adapt their behavior accordingly.
