It’s common knowledge that dogs have an enhanced sense of smell, with some breeds exceeding that of many animals. However, do you truly know how amazing it is? Pet medicine is continuing to discover fascinating details about dogs’ smelling capabilities, and you may be surprised at what you’ll learn in the key facts below.

3 Facts About Your Dog’s Sense of Smell You Didn’t Know

1. They Can Sense Emotions

Pet medicine has begun to prove that dogs can truly sense when you’re sad, anxious, and upset. Because they can detect adrenaline and chemicals released through the skin when you have an increased heart rate and blood flow, they’ll gradually associate these with the above emotions. This is why they’ve become such effective therapy animals in formal and home settings.

2. They Smell in 3-D

Dogs can address different smells through each nostril simultaneously. This is why their nose wiggles when they’re smelling something intensely. By taking in two different smells at the same time—similar to how the human eyes work—they can compile a much more three-dimensional profile in their brains that helps them find distant, hidden, and minute scents.

3. They Can Breathe & Smell at the Same Time

Pet medicine continues to pioneer dogs’ unique olfactory system and has identified that they can inhale and process smells at the same time. Humans can only do one at a time, and upon exhaling, have no possibility of smelling. Dogs can achieve this, allowing them to focus more intently on scent while also breathing normally.

Since 1972, Waipahu Waikele Pet Hospital has provided comprehensive pet medicine services to residents of Oahu. As animal lovers, their team brings a personal treatment approach to each pet and believes that pet health revolves around detailed care and owner education. They know how important your pets are, which is why they offer after-hours emergency services, as well as comfortable pet boarding accommodations when you’re away. Call (808) 671-7387 today to schedule an appointment for your pet. You can learn more about their practice online and connect on Facebook for further news and updates.