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One of the amazing things about dogs is their noses and their ability to detect and remember scents, long after being exposed to the original odor. When a person is pregnant, the hormones in their body are likely to alter their scent in some way. So, can dogs sense pregnancy? Because of their keen sense of smell, it’s believed by many that a dog can detect a change in a pregnant person even before they do — but it’s mostly conjecture. “I suspect that dogs can smell something we cannot,” says Dr. Ann Hohenhaus, DVM, a staff doctor at New York City’s Animal Medical Center.
She explains that dogs have 60 times as many smell receptors as humans, and 40 times as much brainpower dedicated to smell, allowing them to differentiate 30,000 to 100,000 aromas. Because a huge part of a dog’s brain is devoted to analyzing odors, dogs are able to pick up on different scents resulting from chemical changes, cancer, insulin levels, bombs, drugs, a person’s menstrual cycle, and even pregnancy, according to Russ Hartstein, a certified behaviorist and dog trainer in Los Angeles.
How Early Can a Dog Sense Pregnancy?
While we can’t know for sure the exact moment a dog senses a pregnancy, we do know that not much gets by the canine nose. Although your pup can detect a change in scent, it’s unlikely he comprehends the reason for the change.
What he does understand is that something is different, both on a physical and behavioral level, and it’s only natural for him to take notice and show an interest. “Dogs are highly sensitive and intimate in studying behavior and subtle movements,” says Hartstein.
It’s difficult to say just how dogs will react to their owners’ pregnancies; some may become protective, others may be fearful or even completely indifferent to the situation. Dr. Rachel Barrack, DVM, owner of Animal Acupuncture in New York City, says many pregnant people report that their dogs are more affectionate and/or protective during their pregnancy. “It’s likely due to the scent and your hormones, as well as possible changes in your mood,” she explains.
Can dogs tell babies are babies?
If you’re a dog owner who is expecting a baby, you may be wondering how your canine companion will react to the new arrival.
There are a number of ways that you can prepare your dog for the new addition to your family home, promoting the chances of a smooth introduction.
You’re probably curious to whether your dog will be able to tell your baby apart from older children and adults.
We asked five experts, ranging from professional dog trainers to veterinarians, whether dogs are able to tell that babies are babies.
Do dogs know how to be gentle with babies?
If you have a dog, theyre no doubt an integral part of your life. A dog in the family means having a best friend who is always by your side, ready for a walk or a snuggle — or to pick up that tantalizing chip you just dropped. Given just how much time humans spend with their pups, its only natural for them to perceive that something is up when youre expecting. But can dogs sense pregnancy?
Dogs are incredibly perceptive creatures. They can notice changes in their owners mood, and theyre keenly aware of body language — thats why they look sheepish when you scold them for chewing up your favorite shoe. As a result, they tend to follow your lead. If youre happy and relaxed, then chances are your doggo is going to get the hint and initiate a game of fetch or beg for a nice long walk. On the other hand, if youre feeling down, your four-legged friend might cuddle up next to you in hopes of providing a little extra comfort.
This means most dogs will definitely know things are a bit different if youre pregnant. Whether morning sickness has you feeling grim or your doggo is receiving less attention as prep for babys arrival begins, theyll know something is up. However, theyre not likely to suspect that something is a tiny human who is about to change their lives (and yours) forever.