Expecting a new baby in the next nine months? Your dog may already know! While it’s hard to say for sure, there are a few signs that could indicate that your dog is sensing a change in your family dynamic. These signs include sniffing, guarding, alertness, growling, barking, and chewing.
Signs Your Dog Knows a Baby is Coming
Experts speculate that dogs sense changes through scent. Your dog may notice that you smell different due to hormones and other factors, leading them to sniff you more closely. Once they sense a change, they might become more alert and protective of you. This protectiveness can also manifest as growling and barking at people who approach you. Additionally, your dog might become destructive if they aren’t getting enough attention, or they may start wanting to cuddle and sit in your lap more.
Body Language
Watch for signs such as growling, alertness, barking, guarding, and sniffing, which indicate that your dog senses your pregnancy. Other signs might include increased cuddling, destructive behavior, and acting protective.
History of Dogs Sensing Pregnancy
The topic of dogs sensing pregnancy has been discussed for many years, with many pet owners believing their dogs know about the baby before they do. There are even videos online of dogs sniffing and licking their owner’s belly where the baby is developing.
Science Behind Dogs Sensing Pregnancy
While there haven’t been any specific studies on this topic, dogs have a great sense of smell and can detect changes in your body. Hormonal changes might alter your scent, allowing your dog to sense changes before you physically show. Dogs are also perceptive to environmental changes, such as setting up a nursery, which can clue them in to something new.
Training Your Dog If They Sense You’re Pregnant
If your dog exhibits positive behavior changes, such as being cuddly and protective, this is usually a good thing. However, if their protectiveness becomes overprotectiveness or they start exhibiting destructive behavior, it’s important to address it. Make sure to meet your dog’s needs, provide exercise and playtime, and seek professional training help if necessary.
Conclusion
While it’s still a mystery whether dogs can sense a baby coming, it’s important to remember that dogs can sense changes. Keep an eye on your dog’s behavior and ensure their needs are met as you prepare for your new arrival.
“Trust your dog’s senses – they might know you’re pregnant before you do.”
Tips & Things to Know
1️⃣ Pay attention to your dog’s behavior: If you notice your dog sniffing you more closely, being more alert and protective, or exhibiting behaviors such as growling and chewing, it could be an indication that they sense a change in your family dynamic and that you’re pregnant.
2️⃣ Understand the role of scent: Dogs have a strong sense of smell and can pick up on hormonal changes in your body. This means that your dog may be able to sense that something is different even before you physically show signs of pregnancy.
3️⃣ Provide comfort and attention: Changes in your home and family can be overwhelming for your dog, so it’s important to provide them with extra attention, exercise, and playtime. If your dog starts exhibiting destructive behavior or becomes overly protective, seek professional dog training help to address any issues that may arise.
Frequently Asked Questions, Answered ✅
1. How can you tell if your dog might be sensing that you’re pregnant?
– Some behaviors to look out for include sniffing, guarding, alertness, growling, barking, and chewing.
2. What is the basis for the belief that dogs can sense pregnancy?
– Most experts speculate that dogs sense a change in their owner through scent, as hormonal changes can alter the way a person smells.
3. What are some signs that your dog is sensing you’re pregnant?
– Growling, being alert, barking, guarding, and sniffing are common signs that your dog may sense a pregnancy.
4. Can dogs become more destructive when they sense a pregnancy?
– Yes, dogs may become destructive if they are not getting enough attention or if they feel left out or abandoned due to the changes in their environment.
5. How should you train your dog if they sense you’re pregnant?
– If your dog exhibits positive behavior changes such as being more cuddly or protective, it is generally a good sign. However, if their protectiveness turns into overprotectiveness or if they start exhibiting negative behaviors, it is important to address these issues and seek professional dog training help if necessary.
