A new study finds that dogs can smell when humans are stressed

Dogs are known for their incredible sense of smell, but a new study published in teh journal PLOS ONE suggests they can detect changes in human stress levels through our scent. Researchers found that dogs could accurately identify sweat samples collected from peopel while they were stressed, compared to samples collected when they were relaxed.

The study involved collecting sweat samples from 36 participants before, during, and after a stressful task – solving a tough math problem within a time limit. Dogs, along with their handlers, were then presented with these samples and asked to identify which ones came from the stressed individuals.

The results were striking. Dogs correctly identified stressed samples with an accuracy rate of nearly 94%. Interestingly, the dogs weren’t just reacting to the presence of cortisol, the hormone commonly associated with stress. researchers believe they were detecting a complex blend of chemicals released in sweat when humans are under pressure.

“This is the first study to demonstrate that dogs can detect human stress through smell,” says Clara Wilson, a researcher involved in the study. “It opens up exciting possibilities for how dogs could be used to support people experiencing stress, such as those with PTSD or anxiety.”

The findings build on previous research showing dogs can detect other human health conditions through scent, including cancer, diabetes, and even COVID-19. While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind this ability, it further solidifies the remarkable olfactory capabilities of our canine companions and their potential to assist in human health and well-being.

WASHINGTON – The U.S. military said Monday that it attacked three boats accused of smuggling drugs in the eastern Pacific Ocean,killing a total of eight people as scrutiny over the boat strikes is intensifying in Congress.

Trump Administration Faces Scrutiny Over Boat strikes Against Drug Cartels

The Trump administration is escalating efforts to stem the flow of drugs into the United states and has asserted the U.S. is engaged in an “armed conflict” with drug cartels. However, the administration is facing increasing scrutiny from lawmakers regarding it’s campaign of boat strikes, which has resulted in at least 95 deaths in 25 known strikes since early September. This includes a follow-up strike that killed two survivors clinging to wreckage after the initial attack.

These latest strikes occur just before briefings are scheduled on Capitol hill for all members of Congress, as concerns grow about the administration’s military campaign.

Defense Secretary pete Hegseth, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and other top national security officials are expected to deliver closed-door briefings to lawmakers in both the House and Senate.