Last Updated on June 29, 2024 by Fumipets
Mom-To-Be Captures Dog’s Reaction the First Time He Feels Baby Kicking
A heartwarming moment shared by a mom-to-be on TikTok has captured the attention of many, brightening timelines with the adorable reaction of a dog feeling a baby kick for the first time. Known on TikTok as @21_garreg, the new mom posted a video she took seven months ago while pregnant. She revealed that Ned, her partner’s mom’s Welsh collie mix, is an anxious and nervous dog. However, since they bonded, Ned has been nothing but loving and caring.
The Special Bond Between Ned and the Mom-to-Be
Ned, an anxious and nervous Welsh collie mix, formed a quick bond with the mom-to-be, always sitting next to her and showing affection. In a throwback video posted on TikTok on May 26, Ned rested on her belly as usual. Knowing kicks were coming, she held his paw next to her belly and started filming. The video captures Ned’s reaction to feeling the baby kick for the first time.
Ned’s Reaction to the Baby Kick
When Ned felt the baby kick, his eyes shot open for a second before he immediately lifted the rest of his body. He gave a side-eye filled with confusion, clearly wondering what had moved in her belly.
“It was weird; it’s like he knew I was pregnant before we’d told anyone,” she said. “He always used to sit and put his leg over my belly, so having him feel my belly was nothing out of the ordinary.”
Screenshots from a viral TikTok showing a dog’s reaction to feeling a baby kick. He always rested next to the mom-to-be but this was the first time he felt the baby move. @21_GARREG/TIKTOK
Cherishing the Special Moment
Nearly a year later, she still cherishes that special moment captured on camera. It marked the beginning of a beautiful friendship between Ned and her baby.
“That moment was absolutely adorable,” she said. “And now he loves the baby. We have pictures of them, and he’s always checking on him and needs to be close at all times. Bless him.”
Can Dogs Sense Human Pregnancy?
Dogs’ Extraordinary Sense of Smell
It is believed that dogs’ strong sense of smell allows them to detect changes in a pregnant person. Dr. Ann Hohenhaus, a staff doctor at New York City’s Animal Medical Center, explained in an American Kennel Club (AKC) article that dogs have 60 times as many smell receptors as humans and 40 times as much brainpower dedicated to smell. This enables dogs to differentiate between 30,000 to 100,000 aromas and detect altered scents.
Detecting Hormonal Changes
Because of their powerful sense of smell, dogs can likely pick up on the changes in a person’s hormones during pregnancy. However, it is not believed that dogs understand the reason for these changes. Despite this, dogs might start acting differently and reacting to the pregnancy. Owners might notice their dogs becoming more protective, staying attached to their hips, while others might see their dogs become fearful or show no change at all.
Social Media Reactions
The viral Instagram Reel of Ned feeling the baby kick has amassed over 3,900 comments, with users expressing their amusement and curiosity.
- “I represent everyone when I say we need a full story time about that window. Cos we have questions. Many many questions.”
- “Sometimes I think I want a dog and then I hear stories like this and think again.”
- “Exotic appetites. Lots of fiber. No sugar in many of those things.”
- “I dunno, they look completely innocent to me.”
The Importance of Dogs in Family Life
Dogs often play a crucial role in family dynamics, providing companionship, love, and even protection. Ned’s bond with the mom-to-be and her baby exemplifies the deep connection that can form between pets and their human family members. This connection can be particularly comforting during significant life changes such as pregnancy.
Tips for Introducing Your Dog to a New Baby
- Gradual Introduction: Slowly introduce your dog to the new baby’s scent before bringing the baby home.
- Maintain Routine: Try to keep your dog’s routine as normal as possible to reduce stress.
- Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog for calm and gentle behavior around the baby.
- Supervision: Always supervise interactions between your dog and the baby to ensure safety.
Conclusion
The heartwarming video of Ned feeling the baby kick for the first time has not only captured the attention of many online but also highlights the unique bond between dogs and their human families. This special moment serves as a reminder of the love and companionship that pets bring into our lives. As Ned continues to show love and care for the baby, it’s clear that this friendship will only grow stronger.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs
1. Can dogs really sense when their owner is pregnant?
Yes, dogs can likely detect hormonal changes in their owners due to their strong sense of smell, though they may not understand the reason for the change.
2. How can I prepare my dog for a new baby?
Gradually introduce your dog to the baby’s scent, maintain their routine, use positive reinforcement, and always supervise interactions between the dog and the baby.
3. What are some signs that my dog knows I am pregnant?
Dogs might become more protective, stay closer to their owners, or exhibit changes in behavior such as increased affection or anxiety.
4. Why did Ned react to the baby kicking?
Ned likely reacted to the unfamiliar sensation of the baby moving, which was new and confusing for him.
5. How can I ensure my dog and baby have a good relationship?
Positive reinforcement, gradual introductions, maintaining routines, and supervised interactions can help foster a good relationship between your dog and baby.
For more heartwarming stories and tips on pet care, visit Newsweek.
