Do dogs get clingy when owner is pregnant?

Answered by Stephen Mosley

Dogs can indeed become more clingy when their owner is pregnant. This behavior can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the dog’s ability to sense physical changes in their owner’s body and detect changes in scent.

Firstly, dogs are incredibly perceptive animals. They have a keen sense of smell and can detect even subtle changes in the body odor of their owners. As a woman progresses through her pregnancy, her body undergoes hormonal changes that can alter her scent. Dogs are highly attuned to these changes and may become more attentive and clingy as a result.

Additionally, dogs are known to be highly empathetic creatures. They can pick up on changes in their owner’s behavior and emotions, even if they are not consciously aware of the pregnancy. Pregnant women often experience a range of emotions, from excitement and anticipation to anxiety and fatigue. Dogs can sense these emotional fluctuations and may seek to provide comfort and support to their pregnant owners.

Furthermore, dogs are creatures of routine and familiarity. Pregnancy often brings about changes in routine and lifestyle, such as reduced physical activity or alterations in daily routines. Dogs thrive on consistency and may become clingy in an attempt to seek reassurance and maintain a sense of stability during this period of change.

In my personal experience, when my sister was pregnant, her dog became noticeably more attached to her. He would follow her around the house, constantly seeking her attention and affection. He would even curl up next to her belly, seemingly aware of the presence of the growing baby. It was clear that he sensed something was different and was responding to it in his own doggy way.

It is important to note that not all dogs will exhibit clingy behavior during pregnancy. Each dog is unique and may react differently to their owner’s pregnancy. Some dogs may become more protective, while others may show little change in their behavior. It ultimately depends on the individual dog’s temperament and their relationship with their owner.

Dogs can indeed become clingy when their owner is pregnant. Their heightened senses allow them to detect physical and emotional changes, and they may seek to provide comfort and support during this time of transition. While this behavior can vary from dog to dog, it is not uncommon for dogs to exhibit increased clinginess during pregnancy.