Good Dog WeekWhy does my dog roll in smelly things?
Common reasons
Scent-sharing or 'reporting back'
One theory is that wild canines rolled in strong smells to carry information back to the pack about what they'd found, like a smelly scent-report on four legs.
Masking their own scent
Another idea is that rolling in strong odours helped ancestral dogs disguise their natural smell, possibly making it easier to approach prey without being detected.
It just feels good or is simply interesting
Strong, unusual smells are fascinating to a dog's nose. Rolling may simply be a way of really getting into an interesting scent, similar to how dogs love sniffing new things on a walk.
Leftover instinct with no clear modern purpose
Many behaviourists think this is simply an instinctive leftover behaviour that doesn't serve an obvious purpose for pet dogs today, it just feels natural to them.
What you can do
- Keep your dog on a leash or within close recall range in areas where you know there's wildlife droppings, dead animals, or other strong smells, so you can spot temptation early.
- Practise a reliable 'come away' or recall cue in low-distraction settings first, then build up to using it near mild smells, rewarding generously with high-value treats when your dog turns away from the smell to come to you.
- If you see your dog about to roll, call them away cheerfully and reward the moment they disengage, rather than reacting with frustration, this keeps recall positive and reliable.
- Carry wipes or a towel for quick cleanups on walks, and plan for a proper bath at home with a dog-safe shampoo if a full roll happens.
- Keep up with your vet's recommended parasite prevention, since rolling in wildlife droppings or carcasses can occasionally expose dogs to parasites or bacteria.
When to talk to a vet
If your dog seems to be rolling to relieve itching, has skin redness, sores, or a strong smell even without rolling, it's worth a vet check in case of a skin or ear issue. Sudden changes in this behaviour alongside other symptoms like vomiting or lethargy also warrant a vet visit.