Is my dog a cat?

[ogneopasno]

I adopted a couple dogs from the shelter about a month ago. When the shepherd/hound wants to go out, he'll stand in place and stare at the floor, sometimes for 10 minutes, without moving, whining or looking at me. It reminds me of cats who see things that aren't there. What's his deal?

[frogmarch]

1. I don't know, but we had a poodle

years ago who stared lovingly at the doorknob when he wanted to go outside. It was probably the only time he was ever quiet. He'd even stare at the doorknob from clear across the room sometimes, and he'd keep it up till someone walked to the door and opened it.

[ogneopasno]

2. Heh. I look at him, and it's like he's meditating

or trying to send me doggy brainwaves. It's a little eerie, especially because he won't make eye contact, and he's a very confident dog.