Has your dog ever stared at you while you eat?

Has your dog ever stared at you while you eat? Like he's reading your soul. You might think he just wants a bite of your food, but psychology says it's something way deeper. That stare, it's called affiliative food begging. And it's not begging, it's bonding. Thousands of years ago, wild dogs watched their pack leader eat first, not because they were scared, but because it was a ritual of trust and respect. When your dog watches you today, his brain releases oxytocin, the same love hormone a mother feels for her child. It's his way of saying, "You're my leader. I trust you with my life." Here's the wild part. Studies show dogs who do this have higher emotional intelligence than dogs who don't. They're not just watching your food, they're reading your face, your body language, even your breathing. So, next time those eyes lock on you at dinner, remember it's not manipulation.