Do animals smell fear?

Question

I've heard lots of varying answers, from "they smell our pheromones" to "they pick up on body language" and I'm honestly stumped when it comes to the truth. If animals can smell fear or "read" us, what kinds of animals do this? And can they only "smell" fear in humans, or other animals as well?

Answer 1

Yes, but I think also their reaction (when negative) is not only to the scent, but also due to your body language.

The kinds of animals are usually mammals that are used to humans.

But some snakes can sense somehow (smell, maybe) when your body is producing alot of adrenalin, and they are attracted to it.

Answer 2

scary animals smell my fear it's also called pooh.

Answer 3

i think they can smell fear. animals like dogs can. i don't think they can smell fear in other animals.  

Answer 4

Yes they can.  

Answer 5

It's both.

Our bodies do secrete different pheromones when we are afraid.  They help us with our "fight or flight" response.  Animals with keen senses of smell can tell when they are present.

Although you may not mean to come across as scared your body always tells on you.  Sub conscience movements, like a change in posture, or things we can't control like shivering or sweating aree things we can't control.  Since most animals communicate through body language more than humans do it is more noticeable to them.

Answer 6

-yes they can -