As a pet owner, it’s your responsibility to feed, care for, and understand your animal. Part of being a good “hooman” is learning how to communicate with your pet and understanding the reasons behind their behavior. One common but sometimes puzzling action in dogs is sniffing a person’s private area.

According to Master Bowie, this behavior is a way for dogs to gather information and say hello. Humans have apocrine glands that release pheromones, which convey details like age, sex, mood, and health. These glands are concentrated in the armpits and genitals, but since dogs can’t reach armpits, they go for the crotch.

For dogs, sniffing is their equivalent of asking your name, where you live, or shaking hands. It’s an instinctive, non-verbal way for them to get to know you. They can’t talk, so they rely on scent.

If this behavior makes you uncomfortable, you can redirect it through training. Use basic commands like “sit” or “stay,” and reward your dog with treats to shift their focus. This allows them to greet you in a way that’s still natural for them, but more comfortable for you.