Do you ever feel like your dog has a sixth sense? Once your bond with your dog is strong and loving, you will feel like you are on the same wavelength. When you are sad, your dog is there for you. When you get home, your dog knows you are his owner and is genuinely excited to see you. Dogs often seem to notice when someone is uncomfortable and fearful. How do they know that? When your dog eats the pizza off the counter, does he really know he has done something wrong and that you are upset? So, just what can a dog sense about you?


SIGNS OF DOG

SENSING SOMETHING

ABOUT YOU
Dogs seem to have a special ability to sense things that are not overtly obvious to humans. They actually don't have a sixth sense. Instead, they use their five senses in ways that really help them to progress. Dogs have an especially keen sense of smell and they are talented at reading body language and facial expressions. When dogs notice you crying, an emotional reaction is triggered for them.

They are more likely to approach a crying person than a person just humming along without a fuss. Even if the person is not their owner, a dog will attempt to provide comfort in most situations. When a dog is approaching a crying person, he does so in a calm way with his head and his tail down. By appearing non-threatening, he can help calm you down. A dog comforting you will likely lean into you or put his head on you in a calm way.



Arriving home from a long day, your dog is likely to excitedly meet you at the door to welcome you home. Tail-wagging, jumping up, and even barking are ways that your dog shows you how excited he is to see you. But how does your dog know it is you? Your dog spends a lot of time gazing at you. He memorizes your facial expressions and your mannerisms. When he sees you, he could recognize that face anywhere.

A dog is less likely to recognize his owner when his owner is wearing something covering his face. When you are with a group of people, your dog would rather look at you than anyone else. If you bring a new friend to meet your dog, your dog will respond depending on his mood. If your friend is fearful, your dog may be able to sense that anxiety and will respond appropriately depending on his breed and personality. Dogs can tell when someone is fearful by reading their facial expressions and using their powerful sense of smell.


Body Language
Here are some signs you might notice when your dog is sensing something about you:

Staring
Alert
Barking
Whining
Jumping Up
Wag Tail
Licking
More Sniffing Than Usual
Upright Posture



DO DOGS KNOW

WHEN YOU ARE SAD?
If you have ever thought your dog knows when to give you a comforting lick or knowing snuggle, you are probably on to something. Studies have found that dogs can actually recognise human emotions. They can even guess what their human's emotion will be when they see the hole in the backyard - cue the guilty look. It is thought adult dogs have a mind similar to that of a human toddler when it comes to mental abilities, emotional intelligence and vocabulary.

Studies show that dogs are sensitive to emotional contagion which is responding to the emotions of another without understanding what they are feeling. Your dog knows you are experiencing poor feelings even if they are not sure how you feel, so they provide comfort.

In a study of 18 dogs published in an edition of the Animal Cognition journal, the University of London researchers looked at dogs' reactions towards someone crying and humming. The experiments took place in the dogs' homes. It was thought that humming was a new behaviour for most dogs and they would be naturally curious. 15 of the 18 dogs showed submissive body language as they went to their crying owner or stranger.



DO DOGS KNOW

WHEN YOU ARE HAPPY?
It seems a dog can tell when you are happy - although not just because of your facial expressions but by your feel-good hormones oxytocin, serotonin and dopamine. Our levels of these hormones become elevated when we feel happy, and it is thought dogs can smell and sense the change. Researchers in Vienna believe dogs are able to detect human emotions just by looking at pictures of faces. They recognised facial cues to determine if a person is happy or angry. It is thought to be the first evidence of an animal able to discriminate emotional expressions in another species.

A professor at the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna said the dogs in the study could tell the difference in expressions of both people they knew and people they had never seen before. Even more impressive, the dogs were only shown either the top or bottom half of the faces. It appeared the dogs could associate a happy face with a positive meaning and an angry face with a negative connotation.

In a University of Lincoln School of Psychology, a study showed that dogs can integrate two sources of sensory information into a coherent perception of emotion both in dogs and humans. With no prior training or familiarisation, it is thought the dog's ability to combine emotional cues is intrinsic.



DO DOGS KNOW

WHEN YOU ARE STRESSED?
Many dog owners will say their dog can sense their emotions of being stressed or depressed. Their dog will respond by acting differently toward them, have a concerned look or sit beside them to show support. While the dog probably won't know what the emotion is or the cause, they will know that something is different and they need to support their owner.

A dog will often slink away when its two owners argue, not wanting to be any part of the disagreement. It is thought that dogs can smell fear and stress even when there are no other signs. A dog can smell the surge of hormones created by stress - including adrenaline and cortisol. In some cases, the dog has detected the increase of stress before their owner has even realised.

Dogs can alert their owner to the change in emotional state to prevent a panic attack from occurring. Owning a dog has been found to lift an owner's mood and make them less stressed. A dog is an excellent companion for someone feeling stressed. They make excellent friends, take orders well (following training), and encourage their owner to get out of the house for walks, which also helps with stress and depression.

All of these qualities make dogs ideal for helping people deal with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). An emotional support dog does not need specialised training like service dogs, but they do have the qualities required for helping their owner with a mental health condition. However, it is thought that relying on a dog for emotional support may hamper its owner's chances of doing things on their own.

Therapy dogs are becoming popular in schools, hospitals, dental offices and nursing homes. They are trained to comfort humans who are stressed, anxious, upset or just in need of some canine company to brighten their day. Therapy dogs may have been trained as a service dog but not have met all of the strict certification criteria. However, their training means they are friendly and accepting of strangers, happy to sit in the one place for long periods of time, have good manners, and are focused and confident.

A Rhodesian ridgeback dog in France has been trained to detect high levels of cortisol in students. High cortisol levels are typical in students on the autism spectrum. As students file past the dog into school each morning. If a student has high cortisol levels, the dog will signal to her health teacher handler by staring at the student. The teacher can then work with the student on an individual level before a meltdown occurs.



HOW A DOG

CAN SHOW EMPATHY?
Different dogs will display empathy in a range of ways including:

Touching their Owner - Many dogs will show comfort by putting their head on their owner's lap, an outstretched paw or a lick on the hand

Giving their Owner Space - Some dogs will do the opposite of touching their owner instead they will provide them with some space. After sensing the changed emotion of their owner, they move away until they think their owner is ready for their dog's company again

Distraction Method - Other dogs will try to cheer up their owner. They may drop the ball at their owner's feet or encourage them to go outside with them. Just as we might try to take a toddler's mind off something unpleasant a dog may try to do the same for their owner.



HISTORY OF DOGS

SMELLING THINGS
Over 15,000 years ago, something beautiful happened. Man and wolf united to form a bond that would last for centuries to come. The dogs we cuddle and love today are quite different than the wolves they evolved from. However, they have retained many traits that have helped them survive and progress all these years.

Wolves worked their way into the hearts of humans by helping them hunt and providing protection to the group. In return, humans fed their wolves leftovers and gave them shelter. This partnership led to progress for both parties. They also gained a new form of family. Over time, wolves began looking and acting more like the dogs we know and love today. The thousands of years of evolution got us to the point where we have more breeds than we can count.

Some breeds have different sensing abilities than others. Some have a stronger ability to sense things and some are less intuitive. Still, most dogs have a special set of skills that help them learn how to be successful and fruitful in life. They use their sense of smell and their powerful ability to read body language and facial expressions in order to better love the humans that love them. These abilities are some of the evolutionary traits that remained as wolves evolved into dogs.



THE SCIENCE

OF DOGS

SENSING THINGS
Dogs have many wonderful abilities that help them sense things about humans and the world around them. Dogs can tell when we are both happy or sad. They can detect the rise and fall of different brain chemicals that make us feel good such as oxytocin, which produces feelings of happiness and love. When our oxytocin levels are high, we feel happier and our dogs can sense this. When we get sick or we are in a dark spot, our dogs notice this drop in mood and act accordingly. Most dog breeds become more accommodating to their humans who may be under the weather. When we are sad, cuddling dogs can be a huge help. When dogs and humans cuddle, both beings are producing oxytocin. This can elevate the mood of the humans they are cuddling.

Dogs also have a powerful sense of smell which allows them to sense things that humans cannot. Humans have about 6 million olfactory receptors which help our noses smell up to 1 trillion smells. Dogs, on the other hand, have a much stronger ability to sniff out specific scents. They have about 600 million olfactory receptors, which explains why their noses are always wet. This moistness helps them pick up and collect more smells.


HOW TO TRAIN

DOGS

TO SENSE THINGS
Dogs are very intuitive animals. Some dogs have more intellect than others, but all dogs benefit from training. Training dogs helps to exercise their minds. The intellectual stimulation that happens when learning new things applies to both humans and dogs. The more we learn, the more we know! Training also increases the bond between owner and dog.

Doing activities together means you will have more happy memories with your dog. The success that comes after consistent training is rewarding for both the dog and his owner. Some dogs are very treat-motivated. For these dogs, training can be accomplished when providing treats as rewards for good behaviors. Be sure to sometimes replace treats with praise.

That way, your dog will know that he should follow commands even if he is not hungry. Many dogs who are trained with treats alone will disobey their owners when they are not hungry. They are not in the mood for treats, which makes them not in the mood to follow your commands all of the time, especially if they find something much more interesting.



If your dog is not treat-motivated, have no fear. You can start by getting your dog yummier treats, as it is possible he will respond well to treats that are especially tasty. If your dog just does not want treats and needs a more structured environment, there are a few things you can do train him to sense new things. Be sure to decrease the distractions that may come up, this will help your dog have more focus. You can use play and positive praise as a reward instead of treats. Providing regular and consistent practice, dogs can learn to perform specific tasks for humans. For examples, service dogs can be trained to sense very specific things. They can even be trained to sense when an epileptic person is about to have a seizure.

Humans have five recognized senses. We taste, touch, smell, see, and hear. Dogs have the same five senses, but they are not all the same as ours:

1. Humans can discern a broader color spectrum and more visual detail than dogs, because we have more color-detecting cells -cones, in the eye.

2. Dogs see better in the dark than humans, because they have larger pupils that let in more light, and more light-sensitive cells (rods) in the center of the retina. Dogs can also detect tiny movements that we may miss, making them good hunters, especially at night.

3. Dogs have a great sense of smell. Their noses function about 10,000 times better than ours do.

4. Humans have a better sense of taste than dogs. We have about 9,000 taste buds compared to about 1,700 in a dog.

5. Dogs can hear much higher frequencies than humans and can hear at much longer distances.

6. Dogs have an acute sense of hearing, which allows them to hear distant thunder before we do.

7. Dogs can smell changes in the atmosphere (ozone) better than we do, so they may sense an oncoming storm.

8. Dogs can detect changes in barometric pressure or electromagnetic fields that may be related to coming storms.

9. Dogs have been known to detect changes in seismic activity and feel small movements before earthquakes occur.

10. Daily activities. Dogs learn the routines of the people who live with them. They know when we are going to wake up, leave for work, and return home. Ever have your dog meet you at the front door when you arrive home from work? Maybe he just knows your schedule. But maybe it is more. In one study, hidden cameras were placed in homes where researchers had owners come home at random times. Despite the change in schedule, the dogs somehow knew when to go to the door to greet them. Did their acute sense of hearing and smell detect their owner's presence or did their sixth sense kick in?




WHAT IS SIXTH SENSE?
While dogs have five excellent senses, some people think they also have an elusive "sixth sense". What is a sixth sense, anyway? Can it really be defined? People usually think of a sixth sense as intuition or a "gut feeling". Is it an additional sense or an increased sensitivity to the information provided by the other five senses? There is no clear answer, but anecdotes involving the "sixth sense" are quite interesting.



What are some examples

of this increased sensitivity?

Human mood - Many pet owners know that dogs are quite intuitive. When we are happy, our dogs may be equally exuberant. When we are sad, our dogs try to comfort us. Ever sit on the sofa in serious contemplation and have your pooch nestle beside you? Our furry friends seem to know what we need, but how? Humans produce hormones such as oxytocin, serotonin, and dopamine that rise and fall with our moods. Perhaps dogs sense these hormone levels. Or perhaps they notice our facial expressions, voice, body language, or smell. Some might say this increased perception is a sixth sense.

Human illness - A dog's keen sense of smell enables them to "sense" some human illnesses. Dogs can be trained to detect specific volatile organic compounds (VOC) in humans that indicate ongoing illness, helping detect lung cancer by smelling a person's breath or bladder cancer by smelling their urine. Dogs can also predict low blood sugar by detecting VOCs emitted through the skin or predict a seizure by recognizing changes in VOCs, pupil size, and demeanor in a patient with epilepsy. When a dog's sense of smell is coupled with their ability to read their owner's mood, they are quite adept at predicting health problems and preventing injury. Is this a sixth sense or just a superhero dog?

Weather - According to an Associated Press poll, two thirds of pet owners think their pets have a sixth sense about weather. In this case, their sixth sense is likely due to their heightened senses – dogs can hear, smell, and feel weather activity, giving them a predictive edge on humans. Who needs a weather forecaster when you have a dog?


How can you sense

your dog's sixth sense?

We may not be as sensitive as our dogs, but even mere mortals can recognize when a dog's sixth sense is on the job. A dog that detects oncoming bad weather may pace nervously, whine, hide, bark, or seek out their owner. A dog that notices changes in their owner's mood may cuddle up next to them or beg to be petted. Dogs that detect illness may lick the owners incessantly and stay closely by their side. Your own dog can be a service dog that alerts you to things you can not see or perceive. Your dog knows you. Pay attention and you may be surprised at how intuitive he is. Even though there is no scientific evidence for a dog's "sixth sense", we certainly have sense enough to appreciate our dogs' abilities and how they integrate their other five senses in an amazing fashion.




Sixth Sense

They can understand our state of mind, but also where we are heading when we move and anticipate our return home. But dogs are also famous for "predicting" thunderstorms and earthquakes, recognizing certain diseases even before they manifest obvious symptoms, perceiving when a woman is pregnant and many other things.. So is it real Sixth Sense? In reality all these "predictions" are possible for our animals thanks to their 5 senses, which are developed and enhanced in a very different way from ours, as we have seen, and which allow them to capture a whole series of factors that we completely escape , and that they are able to read and interpret as clear signals of upcoming events. Our dogs are therefore not seers, but they are able to perceive many more messages from the surrounding environment than we do, and to give them meaning.

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DOG 6th SENSE

CAN DOGS SENSE
SPIRITS & GHOSTS?
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While there are people who believe in the paranormal, have you ever wondered whether your dog is able to sense the spirits? After all, canines have extraordinary senses that are much sharper than a human’s. And wouldn’t it be comforting to know that your dog is able to detect a loved one who has passed on? Scientifically, there is no any evidence to say for sure whether dogs can see ghosts.

Have you awoken to the startling sound of your dog insisting he's detected a threat in the middle of the night, and then you discover it's nothing? Or is it? Wondering if your pup is seeing spirits may say more about your own beliefs than it does about your pet. According to a YouGov poll, more than 40% of Americans believe paranormal entities like ghosts, demons, and other supernatural beings exist. Over one-third said they have first-hand experience feeling the presence of a spirit or ghost.

Whether you have personally experienced your dog acting out-of-the-ordinary or have heard tales from fellow pet parents, it can be unsettling to think about potentially living with something you cannot see. Unless it is Casper, of course. As you speed walk down your dark hallway, you may wonder, can dogs see ghosts? The existence of ghosts itself has not yet been proven. While the idea of dogs having a sixth sense is intriguing, science suggests more natural explanations for their spooky reactions:

Lack of Evidence for Apparitions - The existence of ghosts or apparitions itself has not been proven through scientific methods. Maybe being inconclusive does not mean that ghosts do not exist?

Dog Senses - Dogs have incredible senses of smell and hearing that can pick up on things humans miss entirely. If a dog seems to be barking at something unseen, it could be responding to sounds, smells, or changes in air pressure that humans can not perceive. But could it mean that there is something paranormal present?

Human Influence - Dogs are very good at reading human emotions. If their human is feeling scared or tense because they think they can see a ghost, your dog might pick up on your anxiety and bark out of concern. Or perhaps something strange has them distracted.

Medical Conditions - Sometimes changes in a dog's behavior can be due to health problems. If you're concerned about your dog's behavior, it is always best to consult a vet. Or chat to a friendly occultist!

While it is tempting to believe that a dog barking at seemingly nothing is reacting to the supernatural, unfortunately, it seems that science and canine behavior have ruled that one out. But how do we explain the dog and their owners' ashes? One thing's for certain, we dogs do pick up on stuff humans miss, perhaps even scientists!

Physical Conditions - The external environment around them might not be the only reason your dog is acting differently than usual. It could be something physical. In both dogs and cats, as they age and senses fade, behaviors may change. Cognitive issues can also make pets act and react in unexpected, inexplicable ways. The first thing that comes to mind, she says, is potentially an anxiety disorder. Many dogs with anxiety experience a frequent or even constant state of hypervigilance, When you combine this with the fact that dogs hear and smell better than we do, there is a variety of things that could trigger a reaction from a dog that aren't on our sensory radar. A mouse crawling in the attic or the scent of an animal walking by outside a window are all valid triggers that warrant a response from a vigilant dog.



A degenerative disorder in aging dogs known as Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS) could also be the cause of your dog's changing behavior. According to Myers, signs of dementia in dogs can include:

Restlessness, Aimless pacing, Staring off into space, House soiling problems, Lethargy, Decreased interest in play or other activities, Decreased responsiveness to family members and other pets, Altered sleep patterns

If your dog's anxiety begins or worsens in the late afternoon or night, talk to your vet about the possibility of Sundowner's Syndrome, a state of confusion sometimes seen in people with Alzheimer's disease.Before you start panicking about your dog being sick, especially if behavior changes are temporary or infrequent, realize it's quite possible they just heard neighbors walking and talking along the sidewalk, saw a quick reflection of a car's headlights, or caught the scent of a critter in the backyard. Or, perhaps your pup senses you are feeling spooked and can't help but feel the same! We know these explanations might not be as exciting as ghosts, but at least you'll sleep better, right? ;)

SURPRISING THINGS
YOUR DOG CAN
SENSE
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Dogs experience the world differently from their human counterparts. They have heightened physical senses and are aware of things we are not. Dogs can detect emotion, physiological changes - changes in the functioning of the body, illness, and environmental events, such as weather. This sensitivity is connected to their ability to see, smell, hear, and feel. They see fewer colors because of color blindness, and they see in higher contrast. This provides better night vision and the ability to track movement. A dog's peripheral vision is wider, but they see less detail.

There is no contest when comparing a dog's sense of smell to their human's. A dog has about 300 million scent receptors compared with a human's 6 million. A dog's hearing also differs from ours. Dogs' ears are built for hearing at higher frequencies than a human, but they do not recognize changes in pitch as well as we do. In fact, there are many other differences between dog and human hearing. A dog's fur and skin help them feel and process interactions with other animals, including humans. Pressure from a puppy playmate's teeth can help communicate a need for less intense play. Given all of their incredible senses, dogs possess the ability to sense things about the world that may surprise you.



1. CAN DOGS SENSE

YOUR MOOD?
One of the most notable talents of dogs is their ability to sense human emotions. They can detect subtle changes in your mood, body language, and even the pheromones your body releases. Research suggests that dogs are capable of understanding and responding to human emotions, providing comfort and companionship when needed. If you’re feeling down or anxious, your dog might be the first to notice and offer you a reassuring presence. You may wonder if your dog can sense when you are sad or upset. Sadness, distress, anxiety, and anger are emotions, which trigger physiological responses in us. This can change our speech patterns, movements, posture, and smell. Since a dog's senses are so heightened, they can detect these signals and be able to understand what happens next.

For example, if you come home smiling and open your arms to your pup, they know you are happy. They prance around and lean in for petting. They may even grab a toy because when you display this behavior, play typically comes next. Alternatively, if you come home angry, or quiet - going straight to your bedroom—your pup will know to steer clear. A human's stress and anxiety are contagious to their dog. Dogs living with people who are chronically stressed are negatively affected in the long-term. This study captured emotional mirroring and the synchronization of stress levels of dogs with their pet parents.


2. CAN DOGS SENSE

A PREGNANCY?
Believe it or not, some dogs can sense pregnancy in their owners. Changes in hormones, pheromones, and subtle shifts in behavior may trigger a dog’s intuition that something significant is happening. They might become more protective, and affectionate, or even exhibit unusual behavior around expectant mothers. While not a foolproof method of pregnancy detection, many stories suggest that dogs can indeed pick up on these subtle changes. Though there is no research confirming a dog's ability to detect pregnancy, there are many stories of dogs changing their behavior when pet parents become human parents. Given a dog's ability to smell hormones and pheromones (a chemical, such as a scent, that signals behaviors like mating), it is likely that they can sense pregnancy.


3. CAN DOGS SENSE

FEAR AND ANXIETY?
A dog is sensitive to fear in humans. When a dog perceives fear in a person through smell, body language, or facial expressions, it can result in behavior mirroring. This means a dog will show fear-based reactions in response to being exposed to a fearful human. Depending on the intensity of fear, this interaction may activate a dog's fight or flight response. Responses can range from avoidant behaviors to reactive ones. If your dog deals with fear by running away (flight) or by biting (fight), it may be triggered by humans feeling tense, anxious, or afraid. Dogs are highly attuned to their owners' emotions, particularly fear or anxiety.

They can sense changes in your body language, hear the fluctuations in your voice, and even smell the pheromones associated with stress. If you are feeling uneasy or scared, your dog may respond by becoming more vigilant, and protective, or offering comfort through physical contact. Their ability to detect fear can create a strong bond between you and your companion, as they often strive to be a source of reassurance. One study examined dogs' behavioral responses to a stranger after exposure to sweat samples - one collected from a happy human, the other collected from a frightened human. Overall, the dogs exhibited more social behaviors toward a neutral stranger after experiencing the "happy" sample and more avoidance after the "fear" sample.


4. CAN DOGS SENSE

A NEGATIVE PERSON?
Because negativity is more of an attitude than an emotion, it may have less impact on a dog. That said, if negativity causes stress and anxiety in a person, emotion and mood come back into the mix. When this happens, their dog could be affected. A negative person who is emotionally unpredictable has a unique chemosignal that dogs can detect. If those scents predict explosive or dangerous behavior, a dog learns to anticipate unsafe surroundings.


5. CAN DOGS SENSE

ILLNESS?
Dogs have an uncanny ability to detect changes in your health that you may not be aware of. Some studies have shown that certain dogs can identify medical conditions such as seizures, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), or even certain types of cancer. Dogs can sense metabolic changes in our breath and through our skin. There are countless stories of dogs alerting their owners to health issues, prompting them to seek medical attention in time. While not every dog possesses these extraordinary skills, many can pick up on changes in your routine or behavior that indicate something might be wrong. Dogs' ability to smell illnesses has been well documented. Typically, the biggest indicator of illness is through odor. Dogs can detect metabolic changes in our breath and through our skin. Most recently, a test was studied on dogs' ability to detect COVID-19. Overall, the average rate of successful detection was 94%.


6. CAN DOGS SENSE

SEIZURE?
Seizures cause changes in a person's physical appearance and facial expressions, thus alerting their pup that something is not right. Pet parents who experience seizures can train their dogs to help them. However, not all dogs will alert a person of an impending event even if they can sense it.


7. CAN DOGS SENSE

CANCER OR DIABETES?
Research has been conducted to determine whether dogs can detect cancer or diabetes. In samples including human tissue for cancer and exhaled breath for diabetes, dogs were able to sniff out infected samples and detect hypoglycemia - low blood sugar, in those who have diabetes. Particularly, dogs seem to notice the presence of melanoma, a form of skin cancer, in humans. Some untrained pups have repeatedly sniffed at a spot on the skin of a pet parent diagnosed with the disease.


7. CAN DOGS SENSE

THE WEATHER?
Along with thunder and lightning, storms cause changes in barometric pressure amount of air pressure in the atmosphere and electrostatic charge - static electricity. When air pressure drops, scent moves down, collecting at ground level. This alerts a dog to changes in weather conditions. Static electricity builds up in a dog's fur and creates small shocks as they move. Dogs are highly gifted companions with a heightened sense of the world around us. If you are not sure how you are feeling or feel as though something is off around you, watch your dog. They may be able to give you further insight.

Dogs have an innate sensitivity to changes in the weather, especially before storms or natural disasters strike. Their acute hearing allows them to pick up on distant sounds of thunder or changes in barometric (atmospheric) pressure, giving them a head start in preparing for the impending weather. Electrostatic charge changes in the atmosphere also alert dogs to changes in the environment. Some dogs may display signs of restlessness, and anxiety, or even seek shelter before a storm arrives, signaling their ability to sense environmental changes long before we do.


8. CAN DOGS SENSE

THE EARTH?
Recent studies suggest that dogs may have the ability to detect Earth's magnetic field. This sense, known as magnetoreception, is thought to help dogs navigate their environment. Some researchers believe that dogs use this sense to align themselves when defecating, often facing either north or south. While this might sound bizarre, it highlights the complex and mysterious nature of dog senses. Magnetoreception is still a relatively unexplored area of study, but it offers fascinating insights into how dogs perceive the world. This ability might also explain why some dogs have an uncanny sense of direction, finding their way home over long distances.


9. CHANGES IN ROUTINE
Dogs have an impressive internal clock. They can sense the passage of time and anticipate daily routines such as feeding times and walks. You might notice your dog waiting by the door when it is time for a walk or sitting by their food bowl at mealtime. These behaviours indicate their awareness of time.Dogs thrive on routine and often notice even the slightest deviations. If you are accustomed to a regular schedule and suddenly experience changes in your daily routine, your dog is likely to pick up on it. This heightened sense of routine awareness can manifest through behaviors such as restlessness, increased attention, or even vocalization as your dog tries to understand and adapt to the new pattern.


10. APPROACHING

VISITORS
Dogs often display excitement or alertness when someone is approaching your home, even before the doorbell rings. Their acute sense of hearing and smell allows them to detect the presence of people from a distance. This behavior is rooted in their instinct to protect their territory and their pack. If your dog is suddenly on high alert or exhibits signs of anticipation, there is a good chance that someone is approaching your home.


11. MOOD OF

OTHER ANIMALS
Beyond humans, dogs can also sense the emotional states of other animals. Whether it is a fellow pet in the household or a creature encountered during a walk, dogs are attuned to the subtle cues that indicate joy, fear, or aggression. This ability to understand the emotions of other animals contributes to their social intelligence and can influence their interactions with different species.


12. CHANGES IN

HORMONES & PHEROMONES
Dogs have an exceptional sense of smell, and they can pick up on changes in hormones and pheromones. This sensitivity allows them to detect various biological signals, including those associated with stress, fear, happiness, or even the hormonal shifts that occur during the menstrual cycle. Your dog may react differently based on the chemical cues they perceive, offering a unique insight into the world of scents that we are often oblivious to.


13. IMPENDING

DANGER OR THREATS
Dogs have a natural instinct to detect potential threats or dangers in their environment. Whether it is a stranger approaching, an unusual noise, or even a change in the atmosphere, dogs are quick to sense when something might be amiss. We do not know about you, but if my dogs act skittish or seem on high alert around a stranger, I trust their judgment and keep my distance. This instinctual alertness has made dogs valuable companions for security and protection throughout history. If your dog suddenly becomes vigilant or exhibits signs of alertness, it is worth paying attention to their cues as they may be sensing a potential threat.


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Dogs help humans in many tasks, but their original role in hunter-gatherer societies was as a sensory aid in finding prey animals. Newly found sensory abilities include heat mapping by the nose, as well as detecting cancer and predicting the onset of seizures.

DOG DOMESTICATION

AND SUPER SENSES
Dogs have been associated with humans for around 30,000 years, which is three times longer than any other domesticate. The big positive that dogs brought to this association was their fantastically sensitive sensory systems. These were, and still are, used by hunter-gatherers to detect prey from a distance. There are two key pieces of evidence indicating that dogs were domesticated for their sensory services to people. The first is that some of their senses are so good.

Their hearing is much more sensitive than ours to high-frequency sounds, and their sense of smell is a hundred thousand times better. The second piece of evidence is that during the period of our association, human sensory capacity declined. This change meant that the human thalamus - a central station for sensory information shrank. This shrinkage was detectable in terms of changes in the structure of the skull. Just two years ago, scientists reported on a new sensory system that detects heat and is analogous to the heat-detecting organ through which some snakes detect their warm-blooded prey.

THE TEMPERATURE SENSE
Dogs have colder noses than other mammals. This provides a background against which heat radiation registers. Born blind and without hearing ability, pups use their thermal sense to remain close to their mother who registers the warmest heat signature in their vicinity.

The thermal sense is useful to dogs in hunting. It helps to explain why dogs that are blind and hearing-impaired may continue to hunt successfully. Dog domestication coincides with the period of declining availability of large game animals, probably due to over-hunting by humans. The surviving prey animals were smaller, and many hid from humans behind dense cover in forests and brush. Dogs are not very helpful in hunting large prey on open ground because potential prey spots them from a distance. They were, and are, much more useful to human hunters for hunting animals concealed by cover.



Neanderthals did not have dogs and switched to a largely vegetarian diet. These factors may have contributed to their inability to compete with sapiens. The thermal sense was established in scientific tests. It explains why dogs have the uncanny ability to enter a room and select a recently occupied chair that still sends out weak thermal radiation. (Dogs can also detect the earth's magnetic field—magnetoreception—using receptors in the visual system).

Being able to see the heat image of an animal concealed in cover allowed dogs to help their human partners find food, but dogs could also sense prey from great distances using their remarkably sensitive hearing and an even more developed olfactory system. Olfactory sensitivity is particularly acute in specialists like beagles that were selectively bred for following scent trails. This super sense has a variety of applications in modern medicine.

DETECTING CANCER

AND PREDICTING SEIZURES
Explosive-sniffing dogs are a common sight at airports, but dogs can also sniff out medical threats. Some dogs have been trained to alert if they detect cancer based on volatile organic compounds emitted by cancerous tissues. Their accuracy is in a similar range to scientific tests. Their use obviates invasive procedures for obtaining samples. People who suffer from epileptic seizures also give off a chemical signature in minutes, or even hours, before an attack. Their dogs often become noticeably upset by this symptom and alert them so that they can remain safe until the attack passes.

THE CONCLUSION
Scientists are learning a great deal about the exotic sensory systems of other animals, including dogs, and we are constantly developing new applications for these sensory superpowers.Many different animals develop close associations with their human companions. In the case of dogs, these connections form with incredible ease, reflecting our long collaboration that extends for some 30 millennia. This is a case of mutual reliance (or inquilinism). By relying on the dog's ability to spot prey, human sensory capacity declined. For their part, dogs relied on humans for food - Australia's dingoes feed on garbage dumps rather than hunting for their own food.

Dogs are highly responsive to the moods of their owners. This helped them to keep in our good books and ensure that they were well fed and cared for. One way that they monitor our mood is by listening to our heartbeat using their super-sensitive hearing.

DOG SENSES ROLE
IN TRAINING
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Did you know that training often requires our canine companions to utilize multiple senses? The five dog senses – sight, smell, touch, taste, and hearing – all play an important part in the training process, as dogs learn to listen for specific signals, recognize certain cues, identify unique textures, and more!

SIGHT
Sight provides critical information during the training process by offering important visual information alongside verbal cues. This is why many trainers will recommend using a hand gesture along with a voice command. Supplementing a voice command with a visual provides extra clues to help you communicate with your furry one.

SMELL
As natural-born hunters, dogs use their noses for identifying and locating objects of interest. Smell can be a strong motivator, which is why treats should be kept hidden until a task has been accomplished; treats can be downright distracting if your pooch catches sight or smell of them. However, smell can work to your benefit during training. Pee pads, for instance, are helpful during potty training, because they have a unique odor and texture in addition to offering a clear visual marker. Utilizing an indoor dog bathroom can emphasize those qualities that pups are naturally drawn to. Subscribe to a fresh grass pee pad today for a pet potty that feels intuitive to your furry one's instincts!

TOUCH
Touch is often underrated when it comes to training. Humans tend to think that sight, smell, and hearing are the only senses at work. However, touch is vital for dogs, who use their paws to explore the world around them. It is one reason they love to dig! When training, different textures can provide critical cues for the learning process. Work with your dog's sense of touch for potty training by using a wee wee pad. The different textures in addition to the unique scent of a real grass pee pad like DoggieLawn offers extra cues that inform your dog about where and where not to go.

TASTE
Taste is another sense that is commonly overlooked. But considering that dogs develop their sense of taste before they can even see, it plays an important role in their lives. It is no wonder that treats send such a major signal to a dog's brain! While taste may play less of a role during training, aside from the tasty rewards they receive, they guide canines by alerting them to potentially toxic plants and other dangerous items.

HEARING
As you might already know, dogs have an incredible sense of hearing that supports their hunting instincts. This not only provides them with a broader range of hearing than humans, their fine-tuned hearing also helps them identify the owner of different voices and noises. This explains why a dog may listen to a command from their human, but not another person that they are less familiar with. A dog's sensitivity to sound is one of the reasons why clicker training has been successful for so many pups and their pawrents. The brief, distinctive sound of a clicker sends a clear message to your dog about whether or not they are on the right track.

DOG SENSES
vs HUMAN SENSES
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The sensory abilities of dogs are nothing short of awe-inspiring, revealing their remarkable adaptations for survival and their profound connection to the world around them. While humans may have their own strengths in certain sensory domains, it is inescapable that dogs have surpassed us in other remarkable ways, particularly in their unparalleled sense of smell and hearing.

Recognizing and embracing these sensory differences not only strengthens the bond we share with our canine companions but also broadens our understanding of the diverse range of sensory experiences that exist beyond our human perspective.

By appreciating the extraordinary sensory world of dogs, we gain a deeper appreciation for the richness and complexity of the natural world and the incredible creatures with whom we share our lives. So, let us celebrate and marvel at the fascinating sensory abilities of our beloved four-legged friends, as they continue to remind us of the vast wonders that lie beyond our own human senses.



DOG SMELL

vs HUMAN SMELL
Dog noses have a powerful sense of smell. When it comes to the sense of smell, dogs undeniably reign supreme. The stark contrast between human and canine olfactory capabilities is staggering. While humans possess around six million olfactory receptors, dogs boast an astonishing 300 million or more. This tremendous difference in olfactory receptor count gives dogs an unparalleled ability to detect scents with incredible precision and sensitivity. Dogs are known to excel in scent-based tasks such as search and rescue, bomb detection, and tracking, where their acute sense of smell plays a crucial role. Dogs can detect odors at concentrations as low as parts per trillion, a level that is nearly inconceivable for humans.

By comparison, we struggle to perceive the same odor until it reaches parts per million. Dogs experience a scent-scape that is truly unfathomable to us, with the ability to distinguish individual odors within complex mixtures, follow scent trails over long distances, and even detect certain diseases through the scent of a person's breath or bodily fluids. The depth and richness of the olfactory world dogs perceive is nothing short of astonishing, making them the ultimate scent detectives and companions.


DOG HEARING

vs HUMAN HEARING
In the realm of hearing, dogs surpass humans with their remarkable auditory abilities. While humans have a decent range of hearing, dogs take the prize with their superior capabilities. One of the most impressive aspects of a dog's hearing is their ability to perceive a much wider range of frequencies than humans. While humans can typically hear sounds ranging from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz, dogs can detect frequencies as high as 65,000 Hz. This extended range allows them to pick up on high-pitched sounds that are completely beyond our reach. Additionally, dogs have specialized ear structures that are designed to capture and amplify sound waves, enhancing their ability to detect even the faintest noises.

Their mobile ears can swivel independently, allowing them to pinpoint the precise location of a sound source with remarkable accuracy. Dogs have an incredible hearing range, being able to detect sounds from a distance approximately four times greater than humans. This heightened sense of hearing enables them to alert us to approaching footsteps, distant sirens, or a doorbell ringing long before we even notice them. The dog's auditory prowess is truly awe-inspiring and plays a significant role in their ability to navigate and interact with the world around them.


DOG VISION

vs HUMAN VISION
Unlike humans, who have a well-developed sense of vision with a broad range of colors and depth perception, dogs perceive the world in a unique and different manner. While their visual acuity may be inferior to ours, dogs possess certain visual advantages that make them well-suited for specific tasks. One such advantage is their exceptional ability to see in low-light conditions. Dogs have a higher concentration of rod cells in their retinas, which are specialized photoreceptor cells responsible for detecting light.

This abundance of rod cells allows dogs to gather more available light and perceive their surroundings even in dimly lit environments. This remarkable adaptation makes dogs excellent companions for nighttime activities, such as walking or playing in the dark. Furthermore, dogs have a wider field of view than humans, typically spanning around 240 degrees. This expansive visual range enables them to detect movement and spot peripheral objects more effectively. While dogs may not have the same level of visual acuity as humans, their unique visual adaptations equip them with impressive capabilities in low-light situations and heightened awareness of their surroundings.


DOG TASTE

vs HUMAN TASTE
While dogs may have fewer taste buds than humans, their taste preferences and experiences differ from ours in intriguing ways. With an estimated 1,700 taste buds compared to our 9,000, dogs have a more limited range of taste perception. They are less inclined to appreciate sweet or salty flavors, unlike humans who often find these tastes appealing. Instead, dogs tend to have a preference for meaty flavors due to their carnivorous nature. However, it's important to note that a dog's sense of taste is often complemented by their highly developed sense of smell.

Dogs use their remarkable olfactory system to evaluate the palatability of food, often sniffing their meals before indulging. Their sense of smell can provide valuable information about the quality, freshness, and even the nutritional content of the food. Thus, while dogs may not possess the same sophisticated taste palate as humans, their ability to combine their sense of taste with their sense of smell enhances their overall perception and enjoyment of food in their unique canine way.


DOG TOUCH

vs HUMAN TOUCH
The sense of touch is an area where humans and dogs share common ground. Both species possess touch receptors that enable us to perceive various sensations such as pressure, vibration, and changes in temperature. Dogs' fur plays a significant role in their tactile experience, acting as a sensory organ in itself. Each individual hair on a dog's body provides valuable information about their surroundings, allowing them to sense even the slightest movements or changes in their environment.

Moreover, touch is a vital aspect of communication and bonding for dogs. They actively seek physical contact with their human companions as a means of comfort, reassurance, and affection. Whether it is a gentle pat, a belly rub, or simply leaning against their human's leg, dogs thrive on tactile interactions, which foster a deeper connection between them and their human counterparts. The sense of touch serves as a universal language of love and companionship, bridging the gap between humans and dogs in profound and meaningful ways.

DOG SENSES vs CAT SENSES
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The five senses – scent, taste, sight, touch and hearing – are important tools for survival for humans and animals alike. We know our pets' senses are superior to ours in many ways, but how do the senses of dogs and cats compare to each other – are they the same? Let's take a look!

DOG SMELL

vs CAT SMELL
Our canine friends have an amazing sense of smell, and we use their scenting ability in many ways. However, cats have an even better sense of smell and can identify differences between a larger variety of scents. Mammals have three types of scent receptor proteins in the nose. One of these proteins, V1R, is thought to be responsible for giving mammals the ability to distinguish one scent from another. We have two forms of this protein - dogs have nine and cat have a whooping 30.

Most dog breeds have around 150 million scent receptors in their nose; some breeds, including the Beagle, Basset Hound, Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd, have about 225 million. The Bloodhound takes first prize with around 300 million. The average feline has around 200 million scent receptors. For cats, their nose makes up for a lack of taste buds. They smell their favorite meal rather than tasting it. Because cats can distinguish scents so well, they can be sensitive to some fragrances you use around the home.


DOG TASTE

vs CAT TASTE
Taste buds have an important role in survival by helping mammals detect the difference between safe and unsafe food. We have around 10,000 taste buds, dogs have about 1,700 and our feline friends have around 470. When it comes to taste, humans and dogs can detect five – sweet, sour, bitter, salty and savory/meaty. The ability to taste bitter and sour allows meat eating animals to tell if a food source is rancid or safe to consume. Dogs are considered omnivores, and scientists believe the digestive system of humans and canines evolved together to process carbohydrates. Because cats are obligate carnivores, they must eat meat to survive and can taste energy producing molecules found in meat. Felines can also taste sour, bitter, salty and savory / meaty, but they lost their ability to taste sweet a long time ago during evolution because sweetness was not a taste needed to survive. Both dogs and cats have specialized taste buds at the tip of the tongue that detect water.


DOG VISION

vs CAT VISION
Dogs and cats are crepuscular rather than nocturnal animals. Their eyesight is designed to pick up on the slightest movement in the low light of the twilight hours of dusk and dawn. They can also see ultraviolet light which is invisible to us. Dogs can see blue and red colors, but get confused with the difference between green and red. They can see a hand signal given from a mile away, but it's harder for them to focus on objects right under their nose. When looking straight ahead, canines have a visual field of view of 240 degrees while a cat's is 200 degrees. Binocular vision (when the field of view of each eye overlaps) is important for depth perception. Compared to cats who have around 140 degrees binocular vision, most dogs only have about 30 to 60 degrees. Both species can see motion from the corners of their eyes, but dogs are better than cats at catching subtle movements in their peripheral vision.

Cats have better night vision than dogs and can see things in detail as far as 200 feet away. Felines are a little better than dogs at focusing in on objects up close, but not by much. Cats can tell the difference between blue, yellow and some hues of green colors, as well as blue-/violet, but are more interested in the pattern and brightness of things. Hues of pink and red are harder for them to differentiate. Touch The sense of touch in dogs and cats is comparable. Both have super sensitive whiskers that help them detect the slightest change in air currents and pressure to navigate in their environment as well as to detect prey, predators and obstructions in the dark. Sensitive paw pads are used to communicate, sense the environment, function like shock absorbers and help regulate body temperature.


DOG HEARING

vs CAT HEARING
Dogs and cats use their ears to express emotions, and both have remarkable hearing. Even in the wee hours of the night the world is a noisy place for our pets. Dogs have 18 muscles in their ears allowing them to move each ear independently to better detect where a sound is coming from. They can hear frequencies up to around 45,000 hertz. Cats have an even greater range of movement with 32 muscles that allow them to rotate their ears 180 degrees, and they can hear at higher frequencies than dogs – up to 100,000 hertz. Bottom line – both dogs and cats have amazing senses!

DOG 6th SENSE:
DETECTING THE DISEASE
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Man's best friend is known for loyalty, playfulness, and an uncanny ability to sense our emotions. But did you know that dogs can also detect certain medical changes in humans? From smelling the onset of a seizure to detecting diseases, our canine companions never cease to amaze us with their heightened senses. While all dogs have an impressive olfactory system compared to humans, certain breeds are particularly renowned for their extraordinary scenting abilities such as Bloodhounds, Basset Hounds, Beagles, German Shepherds, Pointers and Labrador Retrievers to name a few. Beyond their functional roles, a dog’s sense of smell plays a crucial part in how they perceive the world, interpret their surroundings, and communicate with other dogs. Their noses provide a window into a world that remains largely mysterious and inaccessible to humans, making their sense of smell a true canine superpower.



CANINE SUPERPOWER:

THE SENSE OF SMELL
Dogs have about 100 million olfactory receptors in their noses, with some dogs such as Bloodhounds sporting an impressive 300 million receptors. Humans have only 6 million receptors and a dog's sense of smell is between 10,000 to 100,000 times more sensitive than that of humans. This allows them to pick up scents and changes that we can not even begin to detect. Their brain is also primarily wired to analyze these scents, making them exceptional at detecting small changes in the human body merely from smelling a person's breath or body odour. Dogs' heightened sense of smell has been an important part of their domestication and cemented their role as invaluable partners in various human endeavours. For centuries, dogs have been employed in hunting due to their ability to track prey over great distances. In modern times, their olfactory prowess is harnessed in search and rescue missions, bomb detection, drug interdiction, and even in the medical field for early detection of conditions like cancer or changes in blood sugar levels.



WAYS DOGS

SIGNAL DISEASE
Dogs are deeply attuned to their human companions. They have evolved alongside humans for thousands of years, honing an exceptional ability to detect shifts in our behaviours, emotions, and even physical health. When an owner is experiencing health issues, whether acute or chronic, many dogs will display noticeable behavioural changes in response. Here are some common behavioural shifts observed in dogs when their owners face health challenges:

Increased Clinginess or Attachment - Dogs may sense their owner's vulnerability or distress and respond by becoming more attached. They may follow their owner around more than usual, sit closer to them, or even act as a "guard" by their side.

Anxiety or Restlessness - Noticing a difference in their owner's demeanour, routine, or even scent can make dogs anxious. They might pace, whine, or bark more than usual. This is particularly common if there are sudden changes in the home environment, such as medical equipment or frequent visits from medical professionals.

Depression or Lethargy - Some dogs may pick up on their owner's physical or emotional pain and mirror it by becoming subdued, less playful, or lethargic.

Protective Behaviors - Dogs may exhibit increased protective behaviours, such as growling at strangers, placing themselves between their owner and others, or displaying territorial behaviours, especially if they sense their owner is in a weakened state.

Toileting Accidents - Disruptions in a dog's routine or increased stress due to their owner’s health issues can lead to accidents in the house, even in house-trained dogs.

Attention-Seeking Behaviors - Feeling a lack of attention or sensing a shift in their relationship with their owner, a dog may engage in behaviours designed to draw attention, like barking, whining, or bringing toys to the owner repeatedly.

Changes in Eating Habits - Dogs might display changes in their eating habits, ranging from reduced appetite to overeating, possibly mirroring the stress or changes they sense in their environment.

Regression in training - Regression in training is a multifaceted issue, rooted in changes to routine, communication, emotional stress, and more. Disruption in a dog’s routine can create confusion and uncertainty, leading the dog to revert to previous behaviours. In addition to this, lack of proper exercise and mental engagement which often occur when owners are unwell or pregnant can lead to restlessness and behavioural issues, including regression in training. Lastly, if the owner was the primary person reinforcing good behaviour and they’re now less able to do so, the dog may gradually revert to old habits. Training is typically maintained through consistent reinforcement.




DISEASES

DOGS CAN DETECT
Neurological Changes - When a Dog Senses a Stroke or Seizure: While the exact mechanisms remain a topic of research, it is believed that dogs can sense alterations in a person's behaviour, body language, or scent caused by physiological changes preceding a stroke. This remarkable sensitivity, combined with their deep bond with humans, positions dogs as potential life-saving companions, alerting individuals and their families to seek medical attention promptly. The aftermath of a stroke manifest as subtle changes in movement, speech, or behaviour, all of which your dog notices.

In cases of seizures - many stories highlight dogs alerting their owners moments before an episode begins. Some dogs have even been trained specifically for this purpose, proving the depth of their sensory perception.

Detecting Diabetes - A Dog's Nose Knows Blood Sugar Levels: A sudden spike or drop in blood sugar can produce specific scents, thanks to chemicals like isoprene present in the human breath. Some dogs, even without training, will display distinct behaviour when they sense these changes, such as: Licking the person's face, becoming restless or anxious, pawing or nudging the individual. Given this innate ability, there is a growing trend of training dogs to assist diabetics, helping them manage their condition more effectively.

Cancer Detection - Can Dogs Smell the Cancer? While more research is needed, the potential of dogs in early cancer detection showcases their incredible olfactory prowess. Perhaps one of the most fascinating areas of research is whether dogs can detect cancer. Preliminary studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that dogs might be able to smell certain types of cancer, such as:

Lung cancer
Breast cancer
Melanoma
Prostate cancer


Parkinson's - Sniffing It Out Before Symptoms Show: Research has indicated that people with Parkinson's disease produce a distinct, subtle scent linked to certain compounds present in sebum — an oily substance that coats the skin. Even in the early stages of the disease, before overt symptoms manifest, these chemical changes can be present. Trained dogs have demonstrated the ability to identify this specific scent from skin swabs, showcasing the potential for early detection. This remarkable capability not only underscores the depth of dogs' sensory skills but also offers promising avenues for non-invasive early diagnostic techniques in the medical world.


Mood - Our Emotional Barometers: Dogs are exceptionally attuned to our emotions. When an individual is grappling with depression, anxiety, or other mood disorders, their dog can often sense emotional turbulence. While we have always cherished the emotional bond we share with our dogs, understanding their ability to detect medical changes adds another layer of appreciation. Recognising these subtle signals from our dogs not only strengthens our connection with them but can also save us from potential harm. The bond between humans and dogs will only strengthen over time. Responses can include:

Increased affection or closeness

Displaying comforting behaviours like resting their head on the person's lap
Offering distractions by bringing toys or initiating play

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