True or False?

A dog's sense of smell is up to 100,000 times more powerful than a human's.

(scroll to the bottom to find the answer!)

We already know dogs experience the world almost entirely through their noses. But a 2022 study published in the journal Animals set out to find which scents dogs actually prefer, and the results are pretty delightful. Researchers presented 32 different odor samples to 14 dogs and tracked how long each pup spent sniffing each one. The clear favorites? Lavender, blueberry, blackberry, and rose.

Lavender stood out most. It is already well-known as a calming scent for humans, and the research found it has a similar effect on dogs, including lowering their heart rate and increasing rest time. Shelters have even started using scent enrichment programs, diffusing lavender and other calming aromas in kennel areas to help anxious dogs decompress.

And yes, food topped the list overall. No one is surprised. But knowing your dog might genuinely enjoy the lavender candle you burn on a Sunday is a lovely little bonus. Just keep in mind that not all scents are safe for dogs, and concentrated essential oils like tea tree, cinnamon, and pine should be kept well out of reach.

Most dog owners know to keep chocolate and grapes away from their pups, but the list of household hazards goes a lot further than the kitchen counter. Some of the most common products sitting in your home right now could be making your dog uncomfortable without you even realizing it. Here are some everyday items worth a closer look:

• Scented candles and wax melts release soot and synthetic fragrance chemicals into the air, which can irritate a dog's respiratory system over time, especially in smaller or poorly ventilated spaces.

• Traditional air fresheners often contain VOCs and synthetic compounds that are safe for humans in small doses but can be harder on a dog's more sensitive system.

• Essential oils are a big one. Oils like tea tree, eucalyptus, peppermint, and citrus are commonly listed as toxic to dogs.

• Multi-surface cleaners and floor sprays can leave residue that dogs walk through and then lick off their paws, so ingredients matter more than most people think.

• Dryer sheets and fabric softeners contain cationic compounds that can cause digestive upset if a dog chews or licks them.

The good news is that pet-safe alternatives exist for almost everything on this list. A quick label check and a few easy swaps can make a real difference for your dog's everyday comfort at home.

We love our dogs, but let's be honest: sometimes they can bring some unwanted smells. For many pet parents, keeping their home fresh while managing pet odors can be a challenge. The problem? Traditional air fresheners and candles are often filled with artificial ingredients that can be unsafe for dogs and cats.

That’s why we love Aera. Unlike typical air fresheners or candles, Aera’s True Loves line has diffusers and fragrances designed with pets in mind. Their one-of-a-kind formula transforms odors into fresh scents while keeping your furry friends safe.

What sets Aera apart:

• Eliminates smells instead of just masking them

• Hypoallergenic and safe for pets and children

• Scents last up to 3 months (five times longer than traditional air fresheners)

• Fragrances like Alpine Cedar, Amber Skies, Ocean Breeze, and Wildrose Rains

• Set schedules and control fragrance strength using the Aera app

Aera diffusers provide a safer way to keep your home smelling fresh without compromising your pets’ health.

Through the end of this month only, Daily Dig readers can enjoy free shipping on their first order. Available in two diffusers: The Aera Mini for smaller rooms and the Aera Diffuser for larger spaces.

Create a fresher, pet-safe home today with Aera’s odor-fighting diffusers and fragrances.

See the fragrances here.

Thank you to Aera for sponsoring Daily Dig.

You let your dog outside for two minutes and they come back smelling like something unspeakable. It is one of the great universal dog owner experiences. But why do they do it? Turns out there are a few pretty fascinating reasons, and they all trace back to deep canine instinct.

• It is mentally stimulating. Dogs experience the world through scent, and rolling in something new is a way to really absorb it. Carrying that smell in their fur lets them keep sniffing it long after the moment has passed. Think of it as wearing a very exciting outfit.

• It is ancient camouflage. One popular theory is that dogs roll in strong smells to mask their own scent, a holdover from when their ancestors needed to approach prey without being detected.

• It is a form of dog social media. Many behaviorists believe dogs roll in interesting smells to share the news with other dogs. A sort of canine status update: "There are dead worms in the neighbor's yard and I found them first."

The most common culprits are grass, dirt, poop, dead things, and the occasional beloved toy. Most of the time it is harmless, if fragrant. The only time to check in with your vet is if the rolling seems obsessive or your dog carries a persistent odor even without a recent roll. Otherwise, bath time it is.

Thank you to Kalshi for sponsoring Daily Dig.

• 🤢 One trick to fight pet odors at home

• 🌷 The scents dogs love most

• 🏠 Pet-proofing your home, the full guide

• 🐕 15 dog breeds with the strongest sense of smell

• 💗 Simple ways to make your dog feel safe

🐶 Join us on Instagram for more cute dog content

Daily Dig is inspired and brought to you by our wonderful dogs. Our dogs, and all the other pups out there, make the world a happier, brighter place.

With lots of love,

Ivy, Callie, Finnegan, Stitcher, and Huey 🐾

🦴 A Little Treat

🤔 True or False: True! A dog's sense of smell is estimated to be between 10,000 and 100,000 times more sensitive than a human's, thanks to up to 300 million olfactory receptors compared to our six million. It is basically a superpower they use every single day.

🐶 DOTD: Give your pup the spotlight by submitting them for the dog of the day! Reply to this email with the best pictures of your dog. Be sure to include their name and a short description so they can be featured in an upcoming newsletter.

🥰 Spread positivity: Do you enjoy starting your day off with our community? If so, please consider forwarding this email to help us spread our love of all things dogs!

💌 Reply for a surprise: If you are reading this reply "woof" for a surprise in your inbox!

Welcome to Daily Dig! We’re a small team of dog lovers who strive to bring a pawsitive dose of pup content to your inbox every morning. Join our pack of over 180,000 paw pals when you subscribe today!