Dogs have an additional organ called the Jacobson’s organ (also known as the vomeronasal organ). Dogs use this organ to perceive pheromones. But what exactly are pheromones? What signals do pheromones in dogs give exactly? In this blog, we explore these questions.
What are pheromones?
Pheromones are natural, odorless chemical substances that dogs secrete to communicate with other dogs. These pheromones can influence a dog’s emotions and help reduce stress. They are produced in different parts of a dog’s body and have various functions. Pheromones are produced around the head, by the anal glands, and by the mammary glands. They are also be released via the sweat glands in the paws and through the reproductive organs. Each type of pheromone released by a dog carries its own specific message.
DAP pheromones
Mother dogs release calming pheromones through the mammary glands. This Dog Appeasing Pheromone (DAP) is secreted by a mother dog during nursing to give her puppies a sense of safety and security. Even adult dogs can still experience this signal as comforting. DAP lowers the heart rate and has a stress-reducing effect.
Territorial pheromones
Territorial pheromones are spread via urine, the anal glands, and the glands between the paw pads and with these pheromones, dogs mark their territory and clearly define boundaries.
Sexual pheromones
Sexual pheromones are released through urine, vaginal discharge (female dogs), or the foreskin (male dogs). Through these pheromones, dogs make themselves attractive to potential mates. They play an important role in recognizing a dog’s hormonal status and in reproduction. When a male dog detects sexual pheromones (for example through urine) from a female in heat, he often shows a characteristic behavior called “Flehmen,” where he curls his upper lip. Flehmen allows the pheromones to reach the Jacobson’s organ, where they are analyzed. When a male dog perceives the pheromones of a female in heat, this can lead to extreme excitement, frequent marking, whining, loss of appetite, and even attempts to escape.
Alarm and fear pheromones
These pheromones are often released suddenly and unconsciously through the anal glands and sometimes through the sweat glands in the paw pads. When a dog is abruptly startled, the anal glands may empty suddenly, warning other dogs of potential danger.
Social pheromones
Social pheromones are secreted by glands around the ears, the corners of the mouth, the base of the tail, and the anal glands. These pheromones allow dogs to recognize one another. They provide information about who the other dog is, as well as details about health, age, and the emotional state of the other dog.
