Dogs have whiskers above their eyes for several important reasons related to their senses and navigation. The whiskers, known as supraorbital vibrissae, serve as touch receptors and help dogs sense objects and gather spatial information. Additionally, the whiskers likely help protect dogs’ eyes and vision. Understanding the purpose and function of dog eye whiskers provides insight into canine anatomy and sensory abilities.
What are supraorbital vibrissae?
Supraorbital vibrissae refer specifically to the long, coarse hairs above dogs’ eyes. Vibrissae is the scientific term for whiskers, while supraorbital indicates their placement above the eyes.
These prominent whiskers emerge from follicles in the dog’s muzzle between the eyebrows and eyes. They protrude upward and forward from the face, extending several inches in many dog breeds. Unlike the finer fur on a dog’s face, the supraorbital whiskers are stout and rigid, with a thick shaft and tapered tip.
All dogs have supraorbital vibrissae, though their exact size, number, and distribution varies between breeds. Generally, larger dog breeds have more numerous and robust supraorbital whiskers.
Other types of dog whiskers
In addition to the supraorbital vibrissae above the eyes, dogs have other specialized hairs serving sensory purposes:
– Mystacial vibrissae – Located on either side of the muzzle opening. The longest whiskers on the dog’s body.
– Carpal vibrissae – Found on the underside of the front legs near the paws.
– Genal vibrissae – Longer whiskers along the dog’s cheeks.
– Interramal vibrissae – Whiskers on the dog’s chin.
Though these other whiskers also provide sensory input, the supraorbital vibrissae are distinctively positioned above the eyes specifically.
The sensory functions of supraorbital vibrissae
Unlike regular dog fur, whiskers contain many nerve endings connected to the somatosensory cortex in the brain. This makes them highly sensitive tactile sensors. The supraorbital whiskers above dogs’ eyes have several key sensory jobs:
Object detection
Whisker sensation is important for detecting nearby objects around the eyes and face. As the supraorbital vibrissae brush against items in the environment, they send precise touch input to the dog’s brain. This helps dogs gather spatial information and identify objects before directly seeing or contacting them.
Measurement of openings
Dogs use their supraorbital vibrissae to actively measure openings like crawl spaces, tunnels, or pathways. The whiskers help gauge if the dog’s body can fit through an opening. This prevents the dog from becoming trapped or wedged.
Wind detection
The supraorbital vibrissae above the eyes are sensitive airflow detectors. As wind blows against the whiskers, dogs receive input about the direction and intensity of air currents. This likely helps dogs stay oriented when moving through changing wind conditions.
Prey detection
For dogs who hunt and track prey, the supraorbital vibrissae can detect movements and vibrations from nearby prey animals. Slight whisker disturbances prompt dogs to orient towards and identify prey they may not yet directly see.
Emotional expression
The supraorbital whiskers are mobile and can shift position to convey a dog’s emotional state. Forward-angled whiskers indicate alertness or excitement, while whiskers pulled back against the face may signal fear, anxiety, or submission.
The protective function of supraorbital vibrissae
In addition to sensory input, the prominent supraorbital vibrissae likely serve a physical protective purpose for dogs’ eyes and vision:
Blocking debris
The long supraorbital whiskers partially shield dogs’ eyes from dust, dirt, and other foreign particles when moving through vegetation or enclosed spaces. This prevents irritants from directly contacting the sensitive eye surface.
Preventing eye injury
By protruding forward, the supraorbital whiskers can deflect sticks, tall grasses, and other hazards away from the eyes before direct contact. This protects the delicate eyes from scratches or punctures.
Warning of eye contact
Touching or brushing the supraorbital vibrissae prompts most dogs to reflexively blink or pull their heads back protectively. This reaction helps minimize direct eye-to-eye contact that may be perceived as threatening by unfamiliar dogs or people.
Cushioning impact
During activities like running, chasing, or hunting prey, the supraorbital whiskers take some of the force of impact as dogs push through thick vegetation. This cushions the eyes and prevents forceful, damaging contact.
The navigation and spatial functions of supraorbital vibrissae
Research indicates supraorbital vibrissae play important roles in canine navigation and spatial orientation:
Directional cues
The precise tactile input from supraorbital whiskers helps dogs stay oriented and maintain awareness of their direction of travel. The whiskers guide dogs in aligning their heads and bodies for navigation.
Head stability
The supraorbital vibrissae send positional signals that help dogs stabilize their head direction as they move. This is important for accurate visual tracking and spatial mapping.
Spatial mapping
As the supraorbital whiskers contact objects from various angles, dogs form complex sensory maps of their three-dimensional surroundings. This spatial understanding guides navigation and movement.
Jumping guidance
Dogs appear to use supraorbital vibrissae tactile cues to guide their takeoff and landing when jumping up or down from heights.
Swimming guidance
Underwater, the supraorbital whiskers detect current shifts and obstacles, helping swimming dogs stay oriented and maintain course. This is especially useful in low visibility water.
Breed differences in supraorbital vibrissae
While all dogs have supraorbital vibrissae, their prominence and distribution varies between breeds:
Length
– Longest – Rough Collies, German Shepherds, Staffordshire Bull Terriers
– Shortest – Pugs, Boston Terriers, Greyhounds
Density
– Most dense – Schnauzers, Poodles, Lhasa Apsos
– Least dense – Bulldogs, Bloodhounds, Basset Hounds
Angle
– Most forward-projecting – Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes
– Least forward-projecting – Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, English Bulldogs
Color
– Dark colors – Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Doberman Pinschers
– Light colors – Golden Retrievers, Samoyeds, Pomeranians
These breed-specific differences reflect adaptations to factors like climate, work roles, and facial conformation.
Whisker spot patterns
Individual dogs often have unique supraorbital vibrissae spot patterns, much like human fingerprints. However, the overall layout remains symmetrical, with spots corresponding on the left and right sides.
Some examples of common supraorbital vibrissae spot patterns include:
– Solid – No distinct spots. Whiskers are relatively uniform in color.
– Forked – Spots have a forked or divided shape.
– Speckled – Multiple small, dot-like spots are present.
– Striped – Horizontal striping patterns are visible.
– Merle – Irregular blotchy color patterns resembling a merle coat.
– Tipped – Only the whisker tips contain spots, while bases are solid.
Growth cycles and whisker loss
Like regular hair, individual supraorbital whiskers go through growth cycles. The average growth phase lasts about 60-90 days. Shedding patterns vary by individual, but most dogs replace the supraorbital vibrissae completely every 6-12 months.
Whiskers usually fall out symmetrically, with corresponding left/right vibrissae being shed around the same time. Loss is normal during growth transitions. However, chronic whisker loss can indicate:
– Poor nutrition or systemic illness disrupting follicle anchoring.
– Hormonal imbalances interfering with the hair cycle.
– Sensory neuron damage from trauma, toxins, or genetic causes.
– Obsessive whisker chewing or trimming.
– Damage from ultraviolet radiation exposure.
– Allergic reactions affecting the follicles.
If your dog is experiencing abnormal supraorbital vibrissae loss, contact your veterinarian. It may signal an underlying health issue.
Supraorbital vibrissae in puppies
Newborn puppies are born without visible supraorbital vibrissae. The whiskers begin to erupt through the skin around 2-3 weeks of age.
Puppies rely heavily on the supraorbital vibrissae for spatial navigation as they explore their surroundings. The whiskers provide key tactile feedback as puppies learn to locomote and interact with their environment.
By 12 weeks of age, most puppies have attained their full adult complement of supraorbital vibrissae. The whiskers play a crucial role in neurological and behavioral development during the rapid puppy growth phase.
Caring for your dog’s supraorbital vibrissae
To keep your dog’s supraorbital vibrissae healthy:
– Gently wipe away dirt and debris weekly with a damp cloth. Avoid harsh cleaning.
– Check periodically for abnormal whisker loss. See your veterinarian if concerned.
– Never trim or pluck the whiskers, which interferes with their sensory function.
– Protect your dog’s face when traveling through dense brush by attaching a visor to their collar.
– Apply doggie sunscreen to shield light-colored vibrissae from sun damage if your dog will be outdoors for extended periods.
Key things to remember
– Dogs have specialized supraorbital vibrissae above their eyes that serve as touch receptors.
– These prominent whiskers provide dogs with important sensory input for navigation, object detection, and eye protection.
– While all dogs have supraorbital vibrissae, their exact size, density, pattern, and color varies between breeds.
– Puppies begin growing supraorbital vibrissae at 2-3 weeks of age to support spatial and neurological development.
– Never trim your dog’s supraorbital vibrissae, as this interferes with their sensory purpose.
Conclusion
The supraorbital vibrissae above dogs’ eyes play key roles in sensory perception, navigation, eye protection, and brain development. These unique whiskers provide tactile input that enhances dogs’ environmental awareness and coordination. While the specific characteristics vary between breeds, all dogs rely on their supraorbital vibrissae to safely explore and understand their surroundings. By appreciating the vital functions of these prominent facial features, we gain insight into the incredible sensory abilities of our canine companions.
