Why do dogs sniff?

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Sometimes it may seem like dogs like to stick their noses in everything! The main reason dogs sniff is to learn. When a dog sticks his nose out and takes in a big whiff, he is gathering information! Believe it or not, simple sniffing can help dogs do everything from identifying people and other animals, to recognizing foods, to finding out about where something has been! A dog’s sense of smell is so strong that they can use it to find things that are hidden which no one else can find!  

Can you imagine relying so strongly on your nose? A dog’s sense of smell is believed to be 40-50 times stronger than a person’s. Some experts have even shown that dogs are able to use their noses to pick up on emotions and feelings!

What's that smell?!

Start thinking about some of the smells you encounter and what you can learn from them!

For example, does a grilled cheese sandwich smell differently than a peanut butter and jelly? Which sandwich smells more like macaroni and cheese: The grilled cheese or the PB&J?

Are there any places you think of along with certain smells? Maybe the smell of tulips makes you think of your grandmother’s yard, or the smell of popcorn reminds you of a movie theatre. – You too can learn and recognize a whole lot about the things around you, just by using your nose!