Yes, dogs can often determine the gender of both humans and other dogs through their highly developed sense of smell.
How Dogs Detect Gender Through Smell
Dogs possess an extraordinary sense of smell, far surpassing that of humans. This allows them to detect subtle scent differences associated with gender. These differences are likely due to variations in pheromones and other bodily odors produced by males and females. A quick sniff of urine, for example, can reveal a dog's gender, along with other information like age, health, and reproductive status. (Source: 'Pee mail' is a thing between your dog and other dogs on walkies) Even the scent of a human can offer clues to their gender, although the level of accuracy might vary depending on factors like the dog's experience and exposure to people of different genders. (Source: Can Dogs Tell Gender of Humans? - Wag!)
- Urine Analysis: A dog's urine contains a wealth of information, readily accessible to other dogs. Scent marking is a common canine behavior, and the scent analysis provides information that includes gender. (Source: What Dogs Smell - Ark-Valley Humane Society)
- Body Odor: Beyond urine, other bodily odors contribute to a dog's ability to detect gender. These subtle scents are often imperceptible to humans. ([Source: By simply smelling, a dog can determine if a new friend is male or female](Provided Reference))
- Experience Matters: A dog's ability to accurately discern human gender through smell may depend on their past experiences and interactions with people of both genders. (Source: Can Dogs Tell Gender of Humans? - Wag!)
Beyond Smell: Visual Cues
While smell plays a significant role, dogs also use visual cues to distinguish between genders. However, the olfactory clues are likely more reliable and informative. (Source: Are dogs able to distinguish between male and female humans ...)
In Summary
Dogs' exceptional olfactory system allows them to identify the gender of both canines and humans through scent, supplementing this ability with visual cues. The accuracy of gender identification through smell is likely influenced by individual dog experience.
