When do you want to sneeze and the dog is nearby? - briefly
When you feel the urge to sneeze with a dog nearby, it's best to try and suppress the sneeze or turn away from the dog to avoid startling it.
When do you want to sneeze and the dog is nearby? - in detail
Sneezing is a common and natural reflex that can be triggered by various stimuli, such as irritants in the air or sudden exposure to bright light. However, the presence of a dog nearby can significantly alter one's response to the urge to sneeze.
Dogs are known for their keen senses, particularly their acute hearing and ability to detect subtle changes in their environment. When a human is about to sneeze, the body undergoes a series of physiological changes that can be detected by dogs. These changes include an increase in heart rate, blood pressure, and the release of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. Dogs are highly attuned to these bodily signals and may react to them in various ways.
In some cases, a dog's presence can actually suppress or delay the sneeze reflex. This is due to the fact that dogs can sense the tension and anticipation in their human companion. When a person feels the urge to sneeze but tries to hold it back, the dog may pick up on this subtle cue and respond accordingly. The dog's calm demeanor or distracting behavior can help alleviate the tension and reduce the likelihood of a sneeze occurring.
Conversely, if the dog is excited or agitated, it can exacerbate the sneezing reflex. Dogs have been known to exhibit behavioral changes in response to their human's physical state. For example, if the person is visibly uncomfortable or tense due to the urge to sneeze, the dog may become restless or anxious, which can further heighten the tension and increase the likelihood of a sneeze occurring.
Moreover, dogs have been shown to exhibit empathetic responses towards their human companions. In some cases, a dog may sense that its owner is about to sneeze and attempt to comfort them by offering physical affection or reassuring gestures. This can help alleviate the discomfort associated with the urge to sneeze and potentially prevent the reflex from occurring.
In summary, the presence of a dog nearby can have a profound impact on one's response to the urge to sneeze. Dogs are highly attuned to their human companions and can detect subtle changes in their physiological state. Depending on the dog's behavior and demeanor, it may either suppress or exacerbate the sneezing reflex. Understanding this dynamic can help individuals better manage their sneezing reflex and maintain a comfortable environment for both themselves and their canine companions.