If a dog is sniffing your genital area, it may feel awkward — even embarrassing — but rest assured, it’s completely normal behavior for dogs. In fact, it can reveal fascinating things about how dogs experience the world around them.
It’s All About Scent
Dogs have up to 300 million olfactory receptors, compared to about 6 million in humans. They also have a special organ called the Jacobson’s organ, which helps them detect pheromones — the natural chemicals that convey information about gender, mood, health, and reproductive status.
When a dog sniffs someone’s crotch, it’s essentially reading your “scent story.” Just like how dogs sniff each other’s behinds as a greeting, they sniff humans in sensitive areas because that’s where scent glands are most active.
What Are They Detecting?
Dogs might be able to tell:
- If a woman is menstruating, pregnant, or ovulating
- If someone is anxious or stressed
- If you’ve recently had intimate contact
- If there’s any infection or hormonal change happening in the body
Medical Implications
Incredibly, some dogs can be trained to detect cancers, infections, or changes in blood sugar just through scent. So, while the behavior may seem intrusive, it can sometimes point to underlying health issues — even before symptoms appear.
What Should You Do?
If it makes you uncomfortable, calmly redirect the dog’s attention. But remember: your dog isn’t being rude — they’re being curious, social, and doing what comes naturally.
So the next time a pup gets a little too personal, don’t be alarmed. They’re not judging you — they’re just saying hello in their own unique way.