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Well, well, dog moms, we’ve touched base about many quirky canine issues, but today, we’re delving into a spicy subject that has often made its way into my inbox – “Is my male dog affected by my period?”
Initially, I was startled by this question – does a dog actually act differently around that time of the month due to hormonal changes?
Maybe you’ve noticed something similar, and it’s been nagging at you.
Is it just a coincidence or is something “period-related” actually going on?
Stick around as we’re sniffing out the crux of this doggy conundrum, aiming to find some answers that might just surprise you.
You can’t beat biology, folks, so let’s learn together!
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Navigate this post
- Why Does My Male Dog Act Weird When I'm on My Period?
- Is It Normal for a Male Dog to Act Weird When I'm on My Period?
- Examples of Possible Behavioral Changes in Dogs During Your Period
- What to Do if a Male Dog Acts Weird When on My Period?
- Do All Dog Breeds Act Weird During Human Menstruation?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Why does my dog not leave me alone when I'm on my period?
- Why does my dog act aggressive when I'm on my period?
- Why does my dog rip up my period pads?
- Can a male dog sense human female ovulation?
- Why does my dog lay on me when I'm on my period?
- Why does my dog try to hump me when I'm on my period?
- Is my female dog affected by my period?
- In Conclusion: Is My Male Dog Affected by My Period?
Why Does My Male Dog Act Weird When I’m on My Period?
If you’re sensing something peculiar about your dog’s behavior, it just might be a response to something different about you.
Dogs have incredible senses and are very perceptive creatures and they can tell the subtlest changes in your scent and your overall demeanor.
So, what’s making them weird? Let’s find out more.
1. Keen sense of smell and can detect hormonal changes in females
Our furry companions are absolute experts when it comes to detecting hormonal changes.
Their remarkable sense of smell allows them to pick up on the smallest shifts happening within your body during your period.
So if you notice your pet sniffing around you more often during your red days, this just means that they can make out the distinct scents that accompany your time of the month.
2. Scent of menstrual blood may be confusing or stimulating
Since you don’t normally emit a blood-like scent, it’s a smell that can be confusing for them.
Dogs, being naturally curious beings, are intrigued by new things and seek to understand the information they provide.
When they catch a whiff of the unique scent of menstrual blood, our furry pal’s inquisitive nature kicks in.
They become even more interested in figuring out this unfamiliar smell.
3. May exhibit increased interest, agitation, or even anxiety
Your male dog may show extra interest in you during this time because of the changes in your scent and hormones.
This can manifest as increased curiosity, causing them to follow you closely and pay more attention to you.
However, the change in your scent and behavior may also lead to restlessness or anxiety in your furry pal.
As I’ve mentioned repeatedly in my other articles, dogs thrive on routine and familiarity, so any significant change can disrupt their sense of stability and cause them to feel on edge.
4. May become more protective or possessive
When your dog detects hormonal changes, their protective instincts may intensify.
They may display behaviors such as increased vigilance, standing guard, or becoming more possessive of you.
This is their way of demonstrating loyalty and ensuring your safety during what they perceive as a potentially vulnerable time.
5. Your behavior is different
Your dog may also notice changes in how you speak and act and this in turns make them behave differently too.
For example, if you’re experiencing menstrual pains or discomfort, you might be less active or display signs of discomfort.
In such cases, your dog may become extra careful around you, showing increased gentleness and concern.
On the other hand, hormonal changes in your red days can also affect your mood and emotions.
If you’re feeling sensitive or easily irritated, your dog might pick up on these cues and choose to stay close.
This clinginess could either be their way of offering or asking for comfort.
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Is It Normal for a Male Dog to Act Weird When I’m on My Period?
Yes, it is quite normal for male dogs to act weird around their fur parents when their owners are on their period.
The reaction could vary from dog to dog but it could include increased curiosity, attention, restlessness, or even displaying protective instincts.
Examples of Possible Behavioral Changes in Dogs During Your Period
Dog Behaviour: Sudden Behaviour Changes
While no two dogs are exactly alike, here are some common changes that you can expect when you are on your period:
Increased affection or attention-seeking behavior
Your furry pal may seek more cuddles, belly rubs, or physical contact with you as a way to provide comfort and support.
They might also stay beside you more often, silently offering their presence to soothe you.
Restlessness
Dogs may show signs of anxiety in the form of pacing or struggling to find a comfortable position.
This could be a response to the changes they sense in your body and hormones.
Sniffing or licking their owner more than usual
Your pal can become curious about the changes in your scent when you have your period. As a result, they might sniff or lick your body more often.
This behavior is their way of trying to learn and make sense of the differences they detect in your scent.
Barking and whining more frequently
Some dogs may vocalize more during this time. This behavior could be their way of seeking attention.
This could be another way for them to express their own discomfort or confusion about the changes happening around them.
What to Do if a Male Dog Acts Weird When on My Period?
Every month, when your period comes knocking, it can inadvertently affect your furry friend’s world.
It’s a good thing that there are steps you can take to minimize any disruptions and ensure your pet’s comfort.
Keep the male dog separated from you
To create a sense of calm and maintain boundaries, it can be beneficial to keep your furry pal separated from you during your period.
This could involve using baby gates, closing doors, or having a designated “dog-free” area where your furry friend can relax without being in constant proximity to you.
Maintain good hygiene
It’s essential to prioritize hygiene to minimize any confusion or stimulation caused by the scent of menstrual blood.
Dispose of used menstrual products properly and ensure your personal items are securely stored away.
By maintaining good hygiene practices, you can help reduce any potential triggers for your dog’s curious behavior.
Provide a safe and comfortable space for the dog away from you
What you can do here is create a cozy sanctuary for your canine companion in a separate area of your home.
This space should be well stocked with their bed, toys, and water bowl.
By doing so, you can help them feel secure and provide a retreat where they can relax and unwind without being affected by your period-related changes.
Stick to a routine
Keep your dog’s routine consistent and provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation
Maintaining a consistent routine for your dog is super important in helping them feel grounded and secure.
Stick to regular feeding times, exercise schedules, and playtime.
Engage them in activities that provide mental stimulation, such as puzzle toys or training exercises.
This helps redirect their energy and focus, making them less fixated on any peculiar behaviors related to your period.
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Consult with a veterinarian
If your pet’s behavior becomes overly disruptive, anxious, or aggressive when you have your period, it’s always a good idea to seek guidance from the vet.
Do All Dog Breeds Act Weird During Human Menstruation?
Yes. Since all breeds are sensitive to smell, they have the potential to act weird around a menstruating human.
The kind of reaction and intensity will definitely vary but some breeds may be a little more sensitive than others. Those who are bred to rely on their noses are probably going to react more intensely.
Basset hounds, Beagles, and Bloodhounds have exceptional scent detection skills so expect them to act weird during those red days.
Labradors, Golden Retrievers, English Pointers, and Rat Terriers are also known for their keen sense of smell. You can expect them to also react strongly to the scent of blood.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why does my dog not leave me alone when I’m on my period?
Your dog may not leave you alone when you’re in having your period due to heightened curiosity or a desire to offer comfort and support. Smelling blood on you may be a new thing that they wish to explore. Or they could be sensitive to how you act and wish to show their care and affection by staying near you.
Why does my dog act aggressive when I’m on my period?
If your dog displays aggression, it may be due to their instinct to protect you or react to the hormonal changes they sense. They might think of your period as a vulnerable time and feel the need to defend you, which can come across as acting aggressive.
Why does my dog rip up my period pads?
If your dog is ripping apart your period pads, it’s probably because they’re curious about the new smells. Dogs are naturally curious and the scent of blood can capture their attention, leading them to investigate the pads.
Can a male dog sense human female ovulation?
Yes, some male dogs can detect human female ovulation through their exceptional sense of smell. They are very sensitive to the changes, even in your hormones, so they may be able to tell if you are ovulating.
Why does my dog lay on me when I’m on my period?
Your dog may lay on you when you’re on your period for multiple reasons. It could be to provide comfort or a sense of security. Additionally, laying on or near you when you have your period might also be their way of getting closer to the source of the scent they find intriguing.
Why does my dog try to hump me when I’m on my period?
Dogs may hump for reasons like excitement, playfulness, affection, or stress. If your dog humps you, it could be in response to changes in your scent or subtle changes in your behavior. The humping behavior could be their way of expressing their concern or anxiety toward those changes.
Is my female dog affected by my period?
Yes, your female dog can be affected by your period. They may detect hormonal changes in you or pick up on the scent of menstrual blood. These factors can impact their behavior towards you.
In Conclusion: Is My Male Dog Affected by My Period?
I’m sure that you have learned a few fascinating insights about dog biology, so don’t freak out the next time you find your dog behaving strangely when you’re menstruating!
Check out these other dog behavior posts to learn more about our best friends:
- Why do dogs walk in circles before they die?
- Dog lays down when another dog approaches
- Why does my dog look at me when he eats?
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