Ep 129. Ep 129 - Why Do Dogs Sniff Everything?

Ep 129 - Why Do Dogs Sniff Everything?

In this episode of Now You Know, hosts Mark and Nathan are joined by expert canine behaviorist Dr. Emily to explore the fascinating topic of why dogs sniff everything. From their owners' shoes to other dog's behinds, dogs seem to have an insatiable desire to sniff anything and everything they come across.

The episode begins with a brief overview of the importance of sniffing for dogs, explaining that their sense of smell is up to 100,000 times stronger than humans and is vital to their daily routines. Dr. Emily goes on to explain that dogs use their sense of smell to gather information about their environment, to identify other animals, and to communicate with each other.

The hosts then delve into some of the specific reasons why dogs sniff certain things. They discuss how dogs rely on their sense of smell to determine whether a potential mate is healthy and suitable for breeding, and how they use scent marking to communicate with other dogs. The hosts are particularly intrigued by the ways in which dogs sniff each other's behinds, and Dr. Emily provides a detailed explanation of how this behavior is rooted in a dog's social structure and dominance hierarchy.

The episode also explores the ways in which dogs sniff objects, such as their owner's shoes or the furniture in their homes. Dr. Emily explains that dogs use scent to comfort themselves when their owners are away, and that they may also sniff objects as a way of investigating potential threats or new stimuli. The hosts are fascinated by the idea that dogs may be able to differentiate between different people's smells, and they discuss some of the research that has been done on this topic.

Throughout the episode, the hosts provide plenty of examples and anecdotes to help illustrate the concepts being discussed. They share stories of their own dogs and their sniffing habits, and Dr. Emily provides insights based on her years of experience working with dogs of all breeds and backgrounds.

The episode ends with a discussion of the ways in which humans can use their understanding of dogs' sniffing behavior to improve their relationships with their pets. Dr. Emily provides some tips for encouraging dogs to engage in healthy sniffing behaviors, and the hosts talk about the importance of giving dogs plenty of opportunities to explore their environment through their noses.

Overall, this episode of Now You Know provides a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the fascinating topic of why dogs sniff everything. By the end of the episode, viewers will have a newfound appreciation for the incredible power of a dog's sense of smell and a better understanding of the complex ways in which dogs use scent to interact with their environment and with each other.