Many dog owners are often baffled by their dog’s habit of rolling in poop, not to mention the unpleasant task of cleaning them up afterwards.
Whether it’s fox poo, cowpats, or decomposing animals, dogs seem irresistibly drawn to these scents. But why? Let’s dive into the fascinating (and smelly) reasons behind this peculiar canine behaviour and how to manage it.
Why does my dog purposely roll in poo?
Rolling in poo is a natural instinct passed down to your dog from their wild ancestors. Dogs might do it to mask their own scent, helping them go unnoticed by predators or prey. It could also be a way of sharing smells with their pack. Sometimes, they simply enjoy the scent, which their noses interpret very differently from ours. As revolting as it might be, it's actually perfectly normal canine behaviour!
Why do dogs roll in poop and eat it?
As unpleasant as it is, some dogs not only roll in it but also eat the poop. This behaviour, known as coprophagia, can be linked to several factors:
- Curiosity and exploration: dogs use their mouths to explore the world, so eating poop could be a way of investigating its scent or taste
- Nutritional deficiency: some dogs eat poop due to deficiencies in their diet. Ensuring your pet has a balanced diet may reduce this tendency
- Instinct: pack animals like dogs and wolves might have eaten faeces to keep their dens clean, particularly when raising puppies
Why do dogs roll in dead things and poo?
Dogs rolling in dead animals or poo is instinctive behaviour. It may help disguise their scent to avoid predators or sneak up on prey. Another reason could be communication, bringing interesting smells back to the group. Dogs also find certain strong odours exciting, even if we don’t! This behaviour is common but can be managed with proper training and supervision.
Why do dogs roll in fox poo?
Fox poo is particularly irresistible to some dogs. They might roll in it to cover their scent, making them harder for other animals to detect, or simply because they find the smell interesting. It could also be a way of sharing scents with others in their pack. While this habit is natural, consistent training can help prevent it and make walks less messy!
How can I stop my dog rolling in poop?
While rolling in poop is natural for dogs, it’s understandably not ideal for their human companions. Here are some strategies to curb the behaviour:
- Keep your dog on a lead in areas where they’re likely to encounter poo or dead animals
- Know the hotspots on your regular walks and steer clear of them
- Distraction techniques can be effective; carry treats or toys to redirect their attention
- Teaching your dog the "leave it" command can help them resist the temptation to roll in poop. Practice at home with less tempting items before progressing to outdoor scenarios
My dog rolled in poop; how do I get rid of the smell?
If your dog has already indulged in a smelly roll, you’ll need a plan to deal with the aftermath. Here’s how to eliminate that stench effectively:
- Rinse thoroughly: start by rinsing your dog with lukewarm water to remove as much of the poop as possible
- Use a deodorising shampoo: look for shampoos designed to neutralise odours. Products containing natural ingredients like orange oil can be particularly effective
- Apply a vinegar solution: if the smell persists, mix equal parts water and apple cider vinegar and gently rub it into the fur. Rinse well
- Wash the collar: don’t forget to clean or replace your dog’s collar, as it’s likely absorbed much of the smell
While rolling in poop might seem like a quirky or frustrating habit to us, it’s deeply rooted in the evolutionary history of our pets. From scent camouflage to communication, this behaviour offers a glimpse into the instincts that connect our domesticated dogs with their wild ancestors, like wolves and foxes. With some understanding, training and preparation, you can manage this smelly behaviour while still allowing your dog to enjoy their natural instincts.
