Almost every dog owner loves their pup like they're a full member of the family.
There's no doubt that our fur babies are like our real babies — we care for them and love them just like we care for and love our children (they just often require less work than human children).
If you've always been a dog mama, finding out you're pregnant can be a huge adjustment — not just for you, but for your pup as well.
You might notice that after you see those two lines on a pregnancy test, your dog starts treating you differently — maybe he plays more gently with you or lies next to your belly more.
Many pregnant women find themselves wondering whether or not their dog can tell that they're expecting.
The short answer is yes, your dog knows you're pregnant! But how? Find out more by reading the information below!
Thumbnail Photo: Pixabay / germancookie // Wikimedia / Dezidor
Do Dogs Know When You're Pregnant?
Every expecting woman who owns a dog has probably wondered whether her dog can tell that she's pregnant. The answer is yes, but it's slightly more complicated.
Your dog can tell that something is going on — but they may not necessarily understand that you're growing a baby.
That said, Pedigree explains, "Dogs have an astounding ability to sense change in the world around them, and that includes when their owner is pregnant."
How Dogs Know You're Pregnant
So how exactly can your dog tell that you're pregnant?
Well, they're very in tune with their owners — their looks, emotions, behaviors, and smell.
When they notice that there's a change in any of these, they immediately know something's up.
1. They Can Smell It
One of the ways dogs can tell you're pregnant is through your scent.
According to PBS, dogs' noses are 10,000 to 100,000 times better at smelling than humans' noses.
When you're pregnant, your hormones shift, causing a different scent to come from your body, which your dog will immediately notice.
2. They Notice Changes In Your Behavior
Another way dogs know when their owners are pregnant is through behavioral changes.
Dogs are very smart and routine-oriented, so they realize if your behavior changes out of nowhere.
If you're suddenly going to the bathroom more, walking more slowly, or sleeping more, your dog will definitely notice.
3. They Understand Your Emotions
Most dog owners know that their dogs can read their emotions. When you're sad, they'll comfort you, and when you're excited, they'll be joyful right alongside you.
If your moods change when you get pregnant — maybe you have more mood swings, maybe you cry more easily — your dog will sense it and respond accordingly.
Signs Your Dog Knows You're Pregnant
So now that we've clarified that your dog will be able to tell when you're pregnant, what changes should you expect to see with your dog?
Obviously, every dog responds differently, but chances are you may see some of the following behavioral changes.
1. Their Behavior Toward You Will Change
When your dog realizes you're pregnant (or that something is going on with you), they'll alter their behavior.
One thing that might happen is their behavior toward you might change.
According to Baby Center, dogs might become overprotective of their pregnant owner or they may just become more attentive to their owner's needs.
2. Their Behavior Toward Others Will Change
According to the American Kennel Club, "Sensing vulnerability, [your dog] may become your bodyguard, following closely and even keeping others at a distance."
Depending on the dog's personality, they may become defensive or aggressive, even toward other family members.
How To Prepare Your Dog For A New Baby
Because dogs study your behavior and routine, maintaining the same daily structure as before pregnancy will help your pup stay calm and happy.
If your dog hasn't been around babies before, you should consider going to a class or employing a professional trainer — this will help both you and your dog get ready for the new arrival.
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