With having two hard headed Shepherds at home, staring is not allowed at my house!! If someone stares at me, I stare back at them until they blink or look away. Yes.....We have dominance issues at my house!
It all depends on the breed, high intensity breeds (GSD's, rotts, dobes) need to be taken seriously when they stare at you. You may not know what they're doing, but be assured that they know exactly what they are doing!
...sorry for rambling, I've been watching Cesar Milan too much!

Par, with eyes like Gull & Oz.. how could you NOT stare into their eyes?!?!
And Murph.. can you even SEE his eyes?? LOL!!!
Clarebear... LOL.... I didn't have a clue as to what you were talking about with the soap!!