6 Reasons Why Dogs Roll In Smelly Stuff

Dog owners are often caught off guard when their pets come back from a romp covered in unpleasant odors and questionable muck. But why do dogs roll in smelly substances, and how can you discourage this behavior?

What Dogs Might Roll In

Dogs are drawn to strong, intriguing odors that often have more layers of scent than humans can perceive. Their keen noses can detect a wide range of smells, leading them to roll in various odorous materials, such as:

- Feces and manure, whether dried or fresh

- Carrion, roadkill, and carcasses, including dead fish

- Garbage and compost

- Mud and mudpuddles with strong scents

While these smelly substances might repel humans, dogs find them irresistible and roll in them with delight, spreading the odor all over their fur and skin.

Why Dogs Roll in Smelly Stuff

The precise reasons behind this behavior aren’t entirely understood, but it’s believed to be a natural, instinctive trait. Here are some potential reasons why dogs engage in this smelly rolling:

# Hunting Instinct: Covering their own scent with strong odors may be an instinctual behavior meant to conceal themselves from prey. This behavior is seen in wild canines like wolves and coyotes.

# Removing Artificial Smells: Scents from pet shampoos, bedding, and other products that smell good to humans might be offensive to dogs. Rolling in smelly stuff could help mask these artificial odors.

# Communication: By rolling in different smells, dogs create an olfactory record of their experiences, which they can share with their pack upon returning home.

# Catching Attention: Strong odors might attract potential mates or help a dog stand out within its pack, impacting its social status.

# Identification: Rolling in the same noxious material as other dogs in the pack can reinforce a shared identity and communal behavior.

# Enjoyment: Many dogs simply enjoy the act of rolling in smelly substances, finding joy in the sensory experience.

Stopping Smelly Rolls

Regardless of the reasons, the outcome is a dirty, smelly dog. To prevent this behavior, consider these strategies:

- Remove Attractants: Clean up feces and avoid using manure or compost in your garden. Use strong fencing to keep your dog away from smelly areas.

- Leash Control: Keep your dog on a leash during walks and stay alert to potential debris like carcasses or trash.

- Training: Use a squirt gun to deter unwanted rolling or reinforce a “stop” or “come” command with treats or other rewards. Consistent training is key to ensuring your dog understands acceptable behavior.

- Reduce Artificial Scents: Use unscented detergents and shampoos, and keep fragrant products like potpourri and incense away from your dog’s area.

Removing Odors

If your dog does roll in something unpleasant, avoid punishing them, as they won’t understand why their behavior is considered inappropriate. Instead, clean them as quickly as possible. A paste made from hydrogen peroxide and baking soda, combined with a bit of grease-cutting soap, can help deodorize and clean your dog’s coat. Commercial deodorizing shampoos and pet-friendly sprays are also effective at removing odors and keeping your dog smelling fresh.