Dogs’ sense of smell far outstrips our very human nasal capacities, that much is general knowledge. Just how much of a stinky world that opens up is interesting, though. When we think about a dog’s advanced sense of smell, we often assume that means they can smell food from farther away or detect different scents more intensely. However, it’s not just about louder volume—dogs can detect whole “instruments” of smells that we don’t even know are playing. Here are five medical conditions that dogs seem able to smell.
Cancer Detection

Dogs have been trained to detect multiple types of cancer, including skin, breast, bladder, and lung cancer. Studies have shown that dogs can detect cancer with high accuracy. For instance, trained dogs detected lung cancer with a 99% accuracy rate using breath samples and breast cancer with an 88% accuracy rate across all stages of the disease. This ability is due to dogs’ olfactory system being able to pick up on the unique odors produced by cancer cells .
Parkinson’s Disease

Dogs can also detect Parkinson’s disease. A study demonstrated that dogs could distinguish between medicated and unmedicated Parkinson’s patients with a sensitivity of up to 91%. The biochemical changes in a person’s body associated with Parkinson’s disease create specific odors that dogs can identify, which can be instrumental in early diagnosis and treatment .
Diabetes

Diabetic alert dogs are trained to detect changes in blood sugar levels by smelling volatile organic compounds in breath and sweat. These dogs can alert their owners to high or low blood sugar levels, helping to prevent potential health crises. The ability to detect these changes in real-time makes these service dogs invaluable to their owners’ daily management of diabetes .
Epilepsy and Narcolepsy

Dogs can detect the scent of an oncoming epileptic seizure or narcoleptic episode. They pick up on biochemical changes in the body and provide warnings to their handlers, allowing them to take precautions. This ability can significantly improve the quality of life for people with these conditions, giving them time to find a safe space or take medication to mitigate the effects .
Migraines

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Some anecdotal evidence suggests that dogs can detect the onset of migraines by sensing changes in their owner’s body chemistry. Studies have shown that dogs can alert their owners to an impending migraine, usually within two hours before symptoms begin. This early warning can allow individuals to take preemptive actions to lessen the severity of the migraine .
The Science Behind Dogs’ Incredible Sense of Smell

The ability of dogs to detect these diseases is due to their highly sensitive olfactory system, which can detect minute changes in the body’s chemistry. Dogs have around 300 million olfactory receptors in their noses, compared to about 6 million in humans. Their olfactory bulb is also about 40 times larger than ours, proportionally speaking. This remarkable ability is being harnessed in various medical fields to improve early detection and management of diseases, offering hope and better outcomes for patients worldwide.
Conclusion

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While we’ve long known that dogs have an incredible sense of smell, the extent to which they can detect diseases in humans is continually being explored and expanded. From cancer and Parkinson’s to diabetes, epilepsy, and migraines, these furry companions are proving to be not just man’s best friend but also potential lifesavers. As research progresses, it’s exciting to think about the possibilities of how dogs can continue to contribute to human health and well-being.
How accurate are dogs in detecting diseases?

Studies have shown that dogs can detect diseases with high accuracy. For example, they can detect lung cancer with a 99% accuracy rate using breath samples.
Can all dogs detect diseases, or are they specially trained?

While many dogs have a strong sense of smell, those used for medical detection are specially trained to recognize specific scents associated with diseases.
How do dogs alert their owners to medical issues?

Dogs alert their owners through various behaviors such as pawing, barking, or nudging. Diabetic alert dogs, for instance, are trained to alert their owners to blood sugar changes.
Is it scientifically proven that dogs can detect diseases?

Yes, there is substantial scientific evidence supporting the idea that dogs can detect various diseases through their sense of smell.
Are there any limitations to what dogs can detect?
While dogs have a remarkable ability to detect certain diseases, their effectiveness can vary depending on the condition and individual training.
How can I get a medical detection dog?

Medical detection dogs are typically provided through specialized training programs and organizations. It’s important to work with accredited institutions to ensure the dog is properly trained for specific medical needs.
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