That Doggie Smell!
I woke up before my alarm clock this morning to find Tyler snuggled up against my side. What is it about the smell of a warm cuddly dog that makes me feel so good? If you have a dog, you know the smell I’m talking about–it’s kinda like warm old popcorn or warm comfy sox that you’ve worn for a little too long. OK, that doesn’t sound very appealing, but for as long as I can remember, the smell of a warm dog cuddled next to me has made me feel good. And every dog that’s ever been available to me for a warm cuddle has produced this aroma. Maybe I associate the smell with the unconditional love that’s implied in the cuddle. Maybe there are pheromones in the dog’s smell that make me feel happy and loved. Or else it’s my emotional association: warm sox smell=cuddly canine love. I don’t know. What I do know is that it’s a smell that makes me feel good. What a great way to start the day!
Maybe I’m a total nut case, but do you recognize the smell I’m talking about? How do you describe it?
I think it’s doggie perfume – Eau de Chien. Warm, slightly sensuous, comforting, primal.
I feel the same way about my cats. There’s a “pet” smell. Probably gross to non-pet people. My best friend told me she loved how her dog’s paws smelled like “Corn Chips!” Hilarious!
@Caroline
OMD Caroline! “Corn Chips” is a really good discription! Your friend is spot on!
This may also sound wonky, but I love picking up my cat when I come home from work and just burying my head in his tummy fur. I think it’s his smell, plus his soft fur on my face after a day at work, that is so comforting!
~Marcie
@Helen Woodward Animal Center
I wouldn’t call that wonky. I’d call that a warm and fuzzy feeling!
Every morning before the alarm goes off, Otis jumps on the bed and snuggles up next to me. The second the alarm goes off, Otis jumps on me and begins to give kisses. As you say, what a great way to start the day! Lots of love in this house.
Glad to see how great Tyler is doing.