Here's why:
* Sensory Organs: Whiskers, also known as vibrissae, are highly specialized sensory organs. They contain a dense network of nerve endings that are connected to the brain.
* Tactile Sensitivity: The nerve endings in the whiskers are extremely sensitive to touch, pressure, and even air currents.
* Navigating in the Dark: Whiskers help dogs navigate in the dark or cluttered environments by sensing objects and obstacles.
* Detecting Prey: Whiskers also play a role in hunting by helping dogs detect the movement of prey.
* Social Cues: Whiskers can also help dogs communicate with each other, as they can be used to express emotions and intentions.
So, while dogs rely heavily on their sense of smell, their whiskers are also an important sensory tool that provides them with valuable information about their surroundings.