If a dog will not come to you after having looked you in the face, you should go home and examine your conscience.

In this quote, Woodrow Wilson, the 28th President of the United States, uses a simple interaction with a dog to illustrate a deeper moral lesson about self-reflection and personal integrity. Wilson suggests that if a dog, a creature typically known for its loyalty and affection, refuses to come to you after making eye contact, it may be a sign that something is wrong, not with the dog, but with you. The refusal of the dog to approach serves as a metaphor for how people, even animals, can sense when something is amiss in a person's character or behavior.

The idea of examining your conscience implies that if you are being rejected or ignored, it could be a signal that your actions or intentions are not aligned with good moral standing. Wilson seems to be encouraging self-examination, urging individuals to look inward and assess whether their behavior or integrity is at fault. In this context, the dog’s refusal is a reflection of the individual's own inner state—perhaps they have acted dishonestly, unfairly, or in a manner that others, even a dog, might perceive as untrustworthy.

This quote suggests that personal honesty and character are crucial to healthy relationships, whether with humans or animals. Wilson uses the metaphor of the dog—a figure of unconditional loyalty—to illustrate the point that if even an animal can sense a lack of integrity, it is a serious indication that one should take a step back and reevaluate their actions. It encourages the idea that moral awareness and ethical behavior are vital to maintaining trust and connection with others.

The origin of this quote can be traced to Wilson's background as a scholar and politician, where he often used metaphors and simple observations to make complex ideas about ethics, leadership, and personal responsibility more accessible. In this case, the dog serves as a poignant reminder that our behavior is often reflected in how others respond to us, and it encourages a thoughtful, honest examination of one’s own character.