12 Dog Breeds That Notice Tiny Changes in Your Health Before You Do

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By Kory Alden

Dogs have an incredible ability to sense subtle changes in our health, often before we even notice them ourselves. This unique ability is particularly pronounced in certain breeds. Here are twelve dog breeds known for their perceptive nature and sensitivity to human emotions and health changes.

Coton de Tulear

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Known for its joyful disposition, the Coton de Tulear is more than just a fluffy companion. These dogs are remarkably attuned to their owners’ moods and health.

Their acute sense of smell allows them to detect changes in your body chemistry, making them sensitive to stress or illness.

Originally bred in Madagascar, Cotons have always been close companions to humans, perhaps explaining their deep connection and sensitivity.

Havanese

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The Havanese, with its lively antics, is an expert at picking up on shifts in your well-being. Their playful nature doesn’t overshadow their perceptive qualities.

They often notice when their owner is feeling unwell and will offer comfort and companionship.

This breed’s origins as a lapdog for Cuban nobility may contribute to its keen sensitivity to human emotions.

Keeshond

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With its expressive face and bushy coat, the Keeshond is more than meets the eye. Known for observing their surroundings closely, they are quick to notice if something is amiss.

Keeshonds are excellent at sensing emotional changes and will respond with affection and attention.

Historically, they served as watchdogs on barges in Holland, showcasing their alert nature.

American Eskimo Dog

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Don’t let the snowy appearance of the American Eskimo Dog fool you; they are experts at sensing warmth in their owners’ health.

These intelligent dogs can detect subtle changes in mood and physiological state, offering their presence as a source of comfort.

Their roots as circus performers may explain their adaptability and close attention to human cues.

Japanese Spitz

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The charming Japanese Spitz is known for its cheerful demeanor and exceptional attentiveness to its owner.

They have a keen sense of smell and observation, allowing them to pick up on stress or illness in their human companions.

These agile dogs were bred for companionship, making them naturally attuned to human emotions and health changes.

Tibetan Spaniel

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Historically, the Tibetan Spaniel was a cherished companion in monasteries, and this history is reflected in their deep connection with humans.

These dogs are adept at detecting emotional and physical changes, often providing comfort during stress or sickness.

Their small size belies a strong intuition, making them excellent at recognizing shifts in their owner’s well-being.

Italian Greyhound

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Sleek and sophisticated, the Italian Greyhound is an adept observer of its environment.

They are known for their ability to sense when their owner is feeling off, offering their gentle presence as solace.

Their ancient lineage as companions to nobility contributes to their intuitive understanding of human emotions and health.

Whippet

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The athletic Whippet may surprise you with its gentle sensitivity to human health and emotions.

These dogs are known for their quiet empathy, often sensing when their owner needs comfort or support.

Drawing from their hunting roots, Whippets have a sharp sense of awareness that extends to their human companions.

Shetland Sheepdog

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The Shetland Sheepdog, often called the Sheltie, is renowned for its intelligence and perceptive nature.

These dogs can sense changes in their owner’s health, providing reassurance with their presence.

Originally bred for herding, their focus and attentiveness translate into an ability to understand human emotions deeply.

Papillon

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The Papillon, with its butterfly-like ears, is more than just a pretty face.

These dogs have an acute sense of their owner’s emotional and physical state, often offering comfort when needed.

Their historical role as companions to European aristocrats underscores their perceptive, empathetic nature.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

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Despite their robust appearance, Staffordshire Bull Terriers are deeply sensitive to their owner’s health and emotions.

They are known for their ability to offer emotional support, quickly recognizing when something is wrong.

Bred as companions, their nurturing nature makes them excellent at noticing subtle changes in well-being.

French Bulldog

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The charismatic French Bulldog is not only a fashionable companion but also a sensitive observer of human health.

These dogs are adept at noticing emotional shifts, offering their unwavering affection in response.

Their role as beloved companions in urban environments has honed their ability to detect changes in their owner’s health.