DOGS CAN SENSE ‘WHETHER YOU LOVE THEM’ WITH SIGNAL YOU DON’T EVEN KNOW YOU’RE GIVING

Dogs have long been known for their loyalty, affection, and deep bonds with humans — but did you know they might actually sense whether you love them? And not through your words or actions, but through subtle signals you don’t even realize you’re giving off.

Love You Can Smell?

Recent attention on social media — particularly a viral TikTok clip — has brought this heart-warming idea to light. The video shows a puppy snuggled happily in its owner’s arms, with the overlaid text:

“I found out today that dogs can smell when you love them. They sense the increase in oxytocin — the ‘love hormone’ — in your brain, and it makes them feel happy too.”

The science behind this is compelling. Dogs have about 300 million scent receptors, compared to the mere six million that humans have. That gives them an extraordinary sense of smell, allowing them to detect subtle chemical changes in our bodies — including hormone shifts like increased oxytocin when we’re feeling affection.

More Than Just Body Language

While it’s widely accepted that dogs are tuned into our body language, heart rate, and tone of voice, their ability to pick up on emotional changes through smell gives new meaning to the phrase “dogs just know.”

This might explain why your dog curls up with you when you’re sad, or gets visibly excited the moment you walk through the door full of love and joy. They aren’t just guessing how you feel — they may actually be sensing it.

The Deeper Message: Dogs Deserve Love and Care

Regardless of the science, one thing is clear: dogs thrive on love, attention, and meaningful connection with their humans. Owning a dog is a long-term responsibility that requires daily care, exercise, and emotional investment.