18/05/2023
Dogs are super good at picking up on things we don’t even notice. They can sense when we’re feeling scared, nervous, or even just a bit off. And guess what? They can react to that!
Here’s how it works:
Body language: Dogs can tell if we’re acting all stiff, making sudden moves, or seem really tense. When they see that, they might think something’s wrong or dangerous, and they might start barking or growling.
Smells: Dogs have an amazing sense of smell. They can even detect the different smells our bodies give off when we’re feeling worried or stressed. So if we’re feeling anxious, our smell might change a bit, and dogs can sense that. It might make them feel like there’s something bad going on and make them react.
Special chemicals: We release these special chemicals called pheromones when we’re scared or upset. Dogs can actually smell them too! So if we’re feeling scared, our pheromone levels might change, and dogs can pick up on that. It could make them think there’s a reason to be on high alert and act defensively.
Heartbeat: Dogs can even hear changes in our heartbeat. When we’re scared, our heart beats faster. Dogs are really good at noticing these small changes, and it can make them think that something dangerous is happening. So they might get all reactive.
Remember, dogs have different personalities just like people do. Some might get reactive more easily than others, and some might not react at all. But it’s important for us to stay calm and relaxed when we’re around dogs. That way, they’re less likely to feel threatened and react.
If you’re ever unsure about how to behave around a dog or if you have a dog that’s reactive, it’s best to ask a professional dog trainer for help. They can give you the right tips to stay safe and have a good time with dogs!
