Do dogs recognize themselves in the mirror?

Have you ever caught your furry friends admiring themselves in a mirror? The cute little friend standing struck dumb in front of the mirror or barking at the reflection. It is their reactions that often make us wonder, “Do dogs recognize themselves in the mirror?" “Can dogs see themselves in the mirror?” or “Why is my dog barking at mirror?”.

As simple as the questions seem, the answers will open the world of animal cognition and self-awareness. In this guide, we will not only answer the mystery of dogs and mirrors but will also help you make your dog feel comfortable around mirrors.

Can dogs see mirrors​? Do dogs understand mirrors​?

Yes, dogs can see mirrors, but they do not understand them the way we humans do. 

Do dogs recognize themselves in the mirror?

So, can dogs recognize themselves in the mirror? The answer is no. When dogs look into the mirror, they show excitement or curiosity first, considering it another dog in the mirror, but once they realize that the reflection doesn’t have any smell or response, they often lose interest.

Self awareness test ​ / Dog mirror test

• What is the mirror test?

The self-awareness test, or mirror-testing, is an experiment that helps to assess whether an animal has the ability to recognize itself.

• How to conduct a dog mirror test?

Place a large mirror on the floor or securely at a height where your dog can easily see their full reflection.

Place a small temporary mark like a sticker or small dot of pet-safe paint on an area of your dog’s body that is visible only in the mirror.

Observe if they react to the mark when looking in the mirror.

If the dog notices the mark in the reflection and attempts to touch or investigate it, this is taken as evidence that it understands the reflection as itself, suggesting a level of self-awareness.

•  Dogs and Mirrors

When it comes to the mirror test of dogs, it is not a fair measure to check self-awareness among dogs, as they rely more on scent than on sight for recognition and identity. 

• Do dogs pass the mirror test​?

The mirror test is visual-based, due to which dogs generally do not pass it. 

• Alternatives - Smell test / Sniff testing

→ What is a sniff test?

As dogs rely heavily on smell in terms of recognition, the sniff test allows us to measure self-recognition in dogs using olfactory cues.

→ Sniff test procedure

Take a scent sample of a dog (taking urine or swabbing parts of their body). Also, arrange samples of other dogs. Prepare a place where the dog can sniff the samples. Observe its reaction, they spend less time investigating their own scent compared to others.

How do dogs react to mirrors?

Why does my dog stare in the mirror, or why is my dog barking at the mirror? The reactions of a dog looking in the mirror​ can be varied. The following are the ways they can react:

Curiosity: Dogs are often seen staring at the mirror out of curiosity. They also try to investigate the mirror by sniffing around the edges or pawing it.

Barking or growling: A dog looking in the mirror​ might bark or growl as it interprets the reflection as another dog. 

Playfulness: Some puppies or energetic dogs might bounce, wag their tails, or bow in a playful stance, expecting the other dog to reciprocate.

Disinterest: Dogs when they realize there isn’t anything exciting or interesting about the reflection. They become disinterested and walk away.

Backing away: If dogs are startled by the sudden appearance of the other dog, they may back away or avoid the mirror altogether.

How can you help your dog feel comfortable around mirrors?

1. Let the dog approach the mirror at its own pace and let them check out the reflection.
2. Reward your dog with treats and praise when they stay calm near the mirror.
3. Distract your dog with toys or treats.

Are dogs self-aware​?

Even though dogs do not pass the mirror test, they do have a form of self-awareness. Their awareness is particularly through scent and social interactions.

What animals pass the mirror test​?

Here is a list of animals that pass the mirror test:

• Great apes
• Bottlenose dolphin
• Elephants
• Magpies

Are mirrors bad for dogs?         Mirrors are not bad for dogs, but they can become anxious or startled, especially if they perceive it as another animal.