When your dog sniffs a stranger’s groin or nuzzles another dog’s rear, they are performing the equivalent of a firm handshake and sustained eye contact. They are learning age, emotional state, reproductive status, stress levels, and recent health changes. They can detect pregnancy, diabetes, even certain cancers long before medical tests confirm them. They are asking, “Are you friend or threat? Are you sick or well? Should I trust you?” In the canine world, this is the height of polite social gathering, not a breach of etiquette. To refuse this sniff would be like covering your face during a conversation.Continue reading…
