Introduction
Many moms claim their dog knew they were going to go into labor before they even know! Although this may seem like science fiction, there is actually a very real possibility this phenomenon is real!
Sings of a Dog Sensing You're Going Into Labor
However, when you are near the end of your pregnancy, and your due date is fast approaching, many doggy moms claim their dog became even clingier and more present throughout the day. Your dog may seem extra needy, they may follow you to the bathroom, outside, into the kitchen, or even just across the room if you need to throw something in the trash. Your dog is probably doing this to make sure you are okay at all time because they know what is coming next.
Additionally, many dogs will even go a step further and rub and heads and snouts on your belly on the day or day before you go into labor. It's as if they are trying to alert you to prepare yourself. Or, perhaps they are trying to get a closer listen to what is happening inside of your belly!
Body Language
- Staring
- Alert
- Guarding
- Listening
Other Signs
- Rubbing their face, head, or snout on your belly.
- Not leaving your side and following you everywhere
History of Dogs Sensing Labor
Wolves would rely on their sense of smell for just about everything. They would use their nose for hunting and figuring out where their prey was and where they were going. Wolves would also use their sense of smell to pinpoint where their pack was and who was part of their pack as well.
Dogs and wolves also use their sense of smell to determine when foods are safe or unsafe to eat. Although they do not have to worry about this as much today, it is still a useful trait.
Regarding a dog using their nose to sense labor, we can assume they have had this ability for many thousands of years. Dogs are very in-tune with their human owners and can sense emotions, sickness, and much more. Many dog moms have stories about their dogs rubbing their faces on their bellies all day long until they eventually began to have their first contractions.
Science Behind Dogs Sensing Labor
Scientists and animal behaviorist claim that dogs sense oncoming labor due to a combination of scent and feeling the changes in human behavior. Although not every dog will show these signs and not everytime they act oddly means you are going into labor soon, be aware that it is a possibility.
Training Dogs to Sense When You're Going Into Labor
The only thing you can do is keep an eye on their actions and see if you notice any changes in their behavior as your due date approaches. If you notice some of these signs, it could very well indicate that you should prepare to have your baby at any time. Prep your bags and be ready to go when the time comes. Your pup is emotionally connected to you, and they know you very well. You can use their behaviors as guidance, but we do not recommend wholeheartedly relying on your pup. If your dog rubs their head on your tummy or follows you to the bathroom, don't immediately panic and rush yourself to the hospital in anticipation the baby is coming. Still, follow your doctor's orders and listen to your own body to tell you when it's the time.
How To React If Your Dog Shows Signs You're Going Into Labor
-
Do not panic, because this behavior doesn't always indicate labor.
-
Prepare for the possibility just in case.