Dogs are known for their exceptional ability to sense things. They are adept at reacting to even the smallest changes in their surroundings. Many dog owners report noticing changes in their dog’s behavior when someone in the house is pregnant, and they believe it is because dogs can sense pregnancy. But what is the truth? Can dogs sense pregnancy or not? If you want to find out, then stick with us till the end! Let’s begin!
The Senses Of A Dog
So to try to ascertain how our dogs could pick up on pregnancy, it is best to first look at their primary senses. Dogs have great olfactory capabilities, and their smelling capability is estimated to be between 10,000 and 100,000 times that of man. Utilizing this heightened olfactory organ, dogs are able to notice multiple changes within their environment, including hormonal changes within the human body.
These include progesterone and estrogen hormones as well. The impact of these hormones on pheromones is so significant that dogs can detect them—an ability that is not entirely surprising, given that dogs can also sense other hormonal changes associated with menstruation or stress.
Behavioral Changes In Dogs During Human Pregnancy
Pregnant women often notice changes in their dogs’ behavior. Some may become more protective and affectionate, while others become agitated and feel stressed by changes in their surroundings. These dogs might be picking up on their owner’s hormonal changes during pregnancy. Stressed dogs often exhibit unusual behavior, such as shaking uncontrollably or licking their body parts, such as paws or stomach. Overly affectionate dogs might begin to lick your face excessively and ask for more attention.
What Is The Role of Body Language For Dogs Sensing Pregnancy?
Dogs also easily follow body signals, feel a person’s moods and respond to them. Pregnancy comes with physiological changes that affect a woman, such as mood swings and fatigue. It is not uncommon to hear that dogs can sense these signals and, therefore, may change their behavior in response to them. For example, a dog might know that a person they are close to is not well or exhausted, and they will then decide to adopt a caregiving position as a result.
Anecdotal Evidence vs. Scientific Research
Numerous stories of pregnant women claiming their dogs knew they were pregnant exist, but formal academic studies on this question are scarce. However, research on the biochemistry of the canine nose and on disease-detection ability suggests that dogs are very receptive to changes in human bodies. Dogs can use their sense of smell to identify specific types of cancer, diabetes, and even the next seizure in man.
While there might not be research solely dedicated to dogs being able to sense pregnancy, the knowledge of a dog’s olfactory abilities and changes in behavior prove that it is quite possible. Due to the close relation that humans and dogs have had throughout history, especially for thousands of years, it seems logical that a dog can be able to read the human body’s status.
Strategies for Dog Training when There is a New Arrival
Dogs must be prepared when a woman is pregnant. You must keep a close eye on their behavior and prepare them for the new arrival. Here are some tips to help your dog adjust to the changes:
- Maintain Routine: Keep things as normal as possible, try to stick as close as possible to your pet’s schedule, and avoid introducing any sudden changes.
- Gradual Introductions: Socialize your dog with other aspects first, such as baby equipment for newborns, so they get adjusted.
- Positive Reinforcement: Try to establish ‘positive reinforcement’ while training your dogs that will help them learn other aspects of changes that occur in your life.
- Quality Time: Play with your dogs and spend more time with them to help them understand that you will still love them even though the baby is coming.
Conclusion
While scientific research on whether dogs can sense pregnancy is limited, their remarkable olfactory abilities and sensitivity to human emotions suggest that they may indeed pick up on the changes that come with pregnancy. If you notice your dog behaving differently during this time, it could very well be a response to the physical and emotional shifts they sense in you. As you prepare for the arrival of a new family member, remember to involve your dog in the process to ensure a smooth transition for everyone involved.
