Why Dogs Roll in Poo and What You Can Do About It

Let’s be honest. Nothing makes your stomach turn quite like seeing your dog gleefully launch their shoulder into something unspeakably foul and start rolling. If you’ve ever stood in horror as your dog emerges from a field proudly covered in poo, you’re not alone. It’s one of those moments where you question all your life choices and seriously consider wrapping them in cling film before they get back in the car.

But as awful as it feels to us, the act of rolling in poo is completely normal for dogs. It’s not a sign they are bad or out to ruin your day. And no, it does not mean your training has failed or that they are wild at heart. It is just one of those things dogs do. Still, that does not mean we have to just accept it and scrub forever.

So let’s take a proper look at why dogs do this, what it actually means and how you can manage it without losing your patience or your sense of smell.

It’s Not Personal. It’s Dog

The first and most important thing to understand is this. Rolling in disgusting things is instinctive for dogs. It is not rebellion or some kind of moral failing. It is rooted deep in dog history. Back before your dog was lovingly fed chicken and rice in a ceramic bowl, their ancestors had to rely on every trick in the book to survive. Smelling nice was not on the list.

One of the leading theories is that dogs roll in poo and other strong smelling stuff to mask their own scent. This goes back to their wild ancestors who hunted for food and needed to sneak up on prey without being noticed. A strong disguise helped them get close.

Another possible reason is communication. Some experts believe dogs roll in strong smells to take those smells back to their group. It is like saying, “Hey, I found this weird thing. Smell me and you will know where it is.” It might not be how we would choose to share information, but for dogs it makes perfect sense.

And then there is the simple answer. They might just like the smell. Dogs experience the world mostly through their nose. What smells unbearable to us can be endlessly interesting to them.

It’s Not Just Poo

While poo might be the most offensive thing your dog chooses to roll in, it is far from the only culprit. Dead animals, rotting seaweed, stagnant water, compost, even a suspicious patch of grass. All fair game in your dog’s world.

The common theme is strong odours. The stinkier, the better. It is usually something decomposing or pungent that really grabs their attention. These smells are packed with information, at least to a dog. It is not just gross. It is fascinating.

Is This a Problem?

Let’s be practical. Is it dangerous? Not usually. Most of the time, it is just unpleasant. That said, there are a few things to watch out for. Some animal droppings can carry parasites or bacteria. Fox poo, for example, is particularly grim and can sometimes cause tummy upsets if your dog licks themselves clean afterwards. Rolling in anything with chemicals or toxins such as fertiliser or rat poison is more serious and needs vet advice straight away.

But in the vast majority of cases, it is not a health issue. It is a smell issue. It is a now I have to shampoo you twice and still cannot get the stench off my hands issue.

Can You Stop It?

You can reduce the likelihood, yes. But let’s be honest. If your dog loves to roll, they will try their luck whenever they get the chance. The trick is spotting the signs before they drop and roll.

Start by watching their body language. Many dogs will sniff intently, start circling, maybe lower their head or shoulder slightly and then go for it. If you learn what this looks like for your dog, you can interrupt the behaviour before it starts.

A well timed recall can save the day. It does not have to be a drill sergeant shout. Just calling them back in a normal voice and rewarding them for checking in with you can be enough. Training a leave it cue also helps, though this works best when you spot the smelly thing before they do.

And if you are walking in an area where you know they have rolled before, keep them on a long lead. You do not have to wrap them in cotton wool, but a bit of management can go a long way.

Don’t Punish. Wash

It is frustrating. You might want to cry or yell or pretend that dog is not yours. But punishment does not help. Rolling in poo is not something your dog does to upset you. They genuinely do not see it as wrong. Telling them off after the fact just adds stress and confusion.

Instead, deal with the aftermath calmly. Get them home. Wash them thoroughly. Use a dog safe shampoo designed for strong odours. There are plenty on the market that do a better job than your average bottle.

Some people swear by tomato ketchup or baking soda. Others reach for the professional grooming appointment. Whatever works for you, the aim is the same. Clean the dog and move on.

And yes, you can laugh about it later. Eventually.

What If It’s Getting Worse?

If your dog has started rolling more often, or in stranger places, it is worth keeping an eye on things. Sometimes an increase in rolling can be linked to boredom or lack of stimulation. If your dog is not getting enough enrichment or exercise, they might turn to rolling as a way to entertain themselves.

It might also be linked to anxiety. Dogs sometimes repeat certain behaviours because it soothes them, especially if they are feeling unsettled. If you think this might be the case, speak to a behaviourist. Not every rolling dog has a problem, but it is worth ruling things out if the habit suddenly ramps up.

Accepting The Dog You Have

Part of living with dogs is understanding that they will always be a little bit dog. That means mess, smells and behaviours that do not always line up with our human logic. But it does not mean giving up or resigning yourself to being the smelly dog person.

With a bit of awareness, some good training and the right products in the cupboard, you can handle the odd roll without drama. The goal is not perfection. It is having a dog who listens most of the time and a human who does not lose their mind when they do not.

So next time your dog drops and rolls, take a breath. It is not the end of the world. It is just part of the deal.

A Note on Poo Preference

If you have noticed your dog only ever rolls in fox poo, or is strangely selective about what they go for, you are not imagining it. Many dogs have very particular taste in filth. Some ignore horse poo entirely but make a beeline for anything left by a bird. Others seem to have a sixth sense for finding the one foul patch in an otherwise pristine field.

Why? We do not fully know. But it suggests this behaviour is not just random. It is a choice, even if we do not understand it.

Long Term Perspective

Dogs change over time. Some grow out of rolling. Some never do. And some will surprise you by taking it up later in life. There is no hard rule. But it can help to keep a note of when and where it happens. That way, you will start to see patterns and can plan your walks accordingly.

The longer you live with your dog, the more you get to know what sets them off. And while you might never fully stop the behaviour, you will get better at managing it. And at keeping the car clean.

In Summary

Rolling in poo is gross, but it is also normal. Dogs are not trying to annoy you, and they are not broken. With good timing, solid recall and the occasional bath, you can get through it. It is part of the reality of living with dogs. Smelly, yes. But also manageable.

Curious about what Paws Academy has to offer? Have a look at our online training hub and see what might work for you and your dog.