If your dog is sniffing your genital area, it means you have…

Why Do Dogs Sniff Crotches? Understanding This Curious Behavior

Dogs have a rather unconventional way of saying hello—sniffing! While it’s normal for them to investigate each other’s rear ends, their interest in human crotches can be quite uncomfortable. But there’s a reason behind this behavior.

Dogs rely on their powerful sense of smell to understand the world. With around 220 million scent receptors—about 50 times more than humans—they can detect subtle odors that escape our notice. This natural ability helps them learn about their environment and the people in it.

Why Are Dogs Drawn to Crotches?

Dogs are instinctively attracted to strong scents, and the crotch area happens to contain apocrine sweat glands, which release intense odors that dogs find intriguing. While similar glands exist in the armpits and chest, these areas are harder for dogs to reach, making the crotch a more accessible target—especially for larger breeds.

Veterinarian Jennifer Sperry explains that dogs use scent as a way to gather information. Just as they sniff other dogs to learn about them, they investigate humans in the same way.

How to Prevent Your Dog from Sniffing Guests’ Crotches

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