You’ve probably noticed that most dogs love being outdoors, whether they’re strolling in your yard or taking a short walk in the park. One thing that especially excites them is rolling in the grass. You can tell how good it feels for them by their wagging tails and joyful demeanor.
While it might seem strange to owners, this behavior is common among all dogs, regardless of age or breed. Despite the oddity, there’s something undeniably cute about their grassy escapades.
The Reasons Behind Grass Rolling
Dogs roll in the grass for several reasons, and it’s likely a frequent sight whenever you take them outside. Here’s why they do it:
1. Hunting Instinct
Dogs have a natural hunting instinct. Even though modern dogs are domesticated, they still retain behaviors from their ancestors. Rolling in the grass helps mask their scent, making it easier to approach prey. The grass and soil scent clings to their fur, concealing their natural ‘dog smell.’ This behavior is a throwback to their wild hunting days.
2. Communication and Interaction
Rolling in the grass allows dogs to gather and relay information. They pick up various scents that provide insights about their surroundings. This behavior is similar to that of wolves, who roll in scents to communicate with their pack. Through their keen sense of smell, dogs interact and share information with their environment and other dogs.
3. Territorial Marking
Dogs are territorial by nature. They love to mark their spots and belongings, including toys, beds, and even their owners. When a dog rolls in the grass, they leave their scent behind, marking the area as theirs. This behavior signals to other dogs that they’ve been there.
4. Relieving Itchiness
Dogs often roll in the grass to alleviate itchiness from allergies and skin irritation. Rubbing their bodies against the grass provides similar relief to scratching. Watch for signs of irritation such as redness, swelling, or hair loss. If your dog scratches its ears frequently, check for mites or other parasites.
Rolling isn’t limited to grass. Dogs may rub their bodies on carpets, floors, furniture, or even your legs to relieve itchiness. Sneezing can also indicate allergies. If you notice unusual behavior or suspect allergies, visit a veterinarian promptly. Treatments may include oral or injectable medications, allergen-free shampoos, conditioners, and wipes.
5. Removing Unwanted Scents
Dogs have a keen sense of smell. Sometimes, the scent of their shampoo can be irritating, and rolling in the grass helps them remove it. What smells pleasant to humans might be unpleasant to dogs. Rolling in the grass is a form of self-grooming to get rid of unwanted scents. Using unscented grooming products can help avoid this issue.
6. Pure Enjoyment
Dogs love to roll in the grass for fun. It’s their way to relax and feel carefree. This behavior is perfectly normal and part of their playful nature.
7. Obsessive Behavior
Some dogs roll out of obsession. If this is the case, redirect their behavior to prevent it from becoming problematic.
8. Attracted to Scents
Grass and the outdoors are full of various scents—food, decomposing leaves, garbage, other animals, including dead ones. Dogs, with their highly sensitive sense of smell, may find these scents attractive and roll in them out of curiosity or pleasure. Watch them sniff, turn, and then roll over the grass.
How to Stop or Prevent Your Dogs from Rolling in the Grass
Before diving into how to stop or prevent your dogs from rolling in the grass, consider: “Should you stop them?” The answer depends on why your dog rolls.
Let dogs be dogs. If rolling makes them happy and relaxed, it’s fine to let them do it occasionally. Rolling can relieve stress and connect them to their wild ancestry.
However, if your dog is attracted to stinky smells in the grass, it’s best to curb this behavior. Redirect their attention through basic training and positive reinforcement to stop grass rolling.
Training your dog may be challenging. If you struggle, seek professional help from certified trainers in your area.
Catching your dog rolling in the grass is usually harmless unless health issues or obsession are involved. It’s a natural behavior linked to their ancestors.
Next time you see your dog roll, don’t be a strict fur parent. This behavior is harmless. Be happy and supportive, giving your dog a piece of heaven.
*photo by fsergii.kl.ua-depositphotos