Sniffing isn’t just fun for dogs — it reduces stress, builds confidence, and supports mental health. I always tell my clients at any given opportunity that sniffing is great for dogs! Here’s why dogs need to sniff more, and how to help them do it.
If you’ve ever stood around waiting while your dog sniffs the same lamppost for three full minutes, you’re not alone. But here’s the kicker: that “waste of time” isn’t a delay — it’s doggy therapy.
Sniffing isn’t just enjoyable for dogs — it’s vital for their wellbeing. If you want a calmer, more fulfilled, and better-behaved dog, letting them sniff is one of the simplest and most effective things you can do.
🧠 The Science of Sniffing: More Than Just a Walk
While humans rely on sight to understand the world, dogs rely on scent. Their sense of smell is staggering — up to 300 million scent receptors (compared to our puny 5 million), and a brain wired to process them.
This nose is always into something!
Sniffing activates the olfactory bulb, which connects to the limbic system — the area of the brain responsible for emotion, memory, and behaviour. When dogs sniff, they’re doing more than identifying a smell — they’re processing the emotional landscape of their environment.
Even more fascinating? Studies suggest that sniffing raises levels of norepinephrine (I ca never remember this word!) , a neurotransmitter involved in focus, mood, and emotional control.
And here’s the real magic:
👃 Smells Can Block the Stress Response Before It Starts
When your dog engages their nose in a focused way (like sniffing out food or following a trail), the brain shifts away from the fight-or-flight response. Essentially, sniffing competes with stress signals and prevents the release of stress hormones like cortisol. Think of it as natural emotional regulation — before anxiety even kicks in.
🐕🦺 Why Dogs Need to Sniff: Real-Life Benefits
Let’s look at the ways sniffing improves your dog’s life:
1. Reduces Anxiety and Hyperactivity
Sniffing is a calming, self-soothing behaviour. For dogs that are anxious, reactive, or just full of beans, sniffing acts like doggy meditation. It settles their nervous system and offers a sense of control.
2. Builds Confidence
Especially for nervous or under-socialised dogs, sniffing games allow them to succeed and explore in a low-pressure environment. No awkward introductions. No overstimulation. Just curiosity rewarded.
3. Provides Mental Enrichment (With Less Physical Impact)
Not every dog needs a marathon. Some need a puzzle. Scent work can mentally tire a dog more effectively than physical exercise alone — perfect for rainy days, older dogs, or dogs on restricted movement.
4. Deepens the Bond Between You and Your Dog
By allowing your dog to sniff and explore, you show that you trust them and respect their instincts and choices. That kind of understanding builds connection — and better training outcomes, too.
🦴 How to Encourage Healthy Sniffing Habits
Let’s turn sniffing from a walk delay into a purposeful part of your dog’s routine.
🌿 1. Sniffari Walks
Pop your dog on a long lead (3–5 metres), ditch the “heel” command, and let them set the pace and lead the way. These walks are all about exploration, not exercise.
Bobby is a real sniffer on a walk and I had to make myself not rush him!
🧠 2. Scent Games at Home
Hide treats under plant pots, in cardboard boxes, or in a snuffle mat. Place some treats at a height as this can be tricky for dogs to locate. You could hide their bowl of dinner somewhere for them to find or a stuffed Kong.
Use some recycling to create a sniffing game
🎓 3. Try Nose Work Classes
If your dog lives to sniff, consider a structured scent training class. Great for building focus, confidence, and mental stimulation — especially for anxious or reactive dogs.
A scent wall from one of my scent classes – detecting tiny pieces of Kong
🌾 4. Scatter Feeding in the Garden
Toss dry food or treats into the grass and let your dog forage. It slows eating, engages their nose, and taps into natural instincts. Another great way to give your dog one of their meals in the day.
❓ FAQ: Common Questions About Dogs and Sniffing
Q: Is sniffing mentally stimulating for dogs?
Absolutely! It’s one of the best ways to tire your dog out without physical strain. Think of it as a brain workout.
Q: How long should I let my dog sniff on walks?
Let them sniff freely for at least 10–15 minutes per walk, even if you don’t go far. It’s about quality, not distance.
Q: My dog sniffs constantly — is that bad?
Not necessarily. It can mean they’re engaged, curious, or even working through mild stress. There are ways you can control it a little if it becomes compulsive or obsessive – for example you can put it on cue.
Q: Can sniffing replace physical exercise?
Generally no, not long term. It may be a good substitute if your dog is recovering from an injury or operation or when you cannot get your dog out on a walk. But physical exercise is still important.
🐾 Let’s Redefine the Sniff
Next time your dog stops to sniff while out on a walk, think twice about hurrying them on. Think about who this walk is for and maybe give them this time to have a good old sniff.
In short: your dog needs to sniff — and you’ll both be better for it.
Want to harness your dog’s super sniffer for calmer walks and better behaviour?
Get in touch with me for a one to one session so I can teach you and your pup some scent games and how to harness this superpower for the good. I also run scent classes so send me a message if interested in attending