We know it’s damn irritating when you’ve just given a nice shower to your dog, and they smell like fresh flowers. But the first thing they do is rush outside and roll in grass like it’s the greatest thing since sliced bread. It’s like them saying “Thanks for the spa day, but I prefer the all-natural look”
We are glad that you didn’t shout at your dog and came straight here to understand why they do so. You see dogs have all kinds of weird habits. You’ll see them eating rocks, sniffing other dog’s butts, humping almost everything soft and sometimes even eating their own poop (we are sorry if that painted a picture in your head. If it hadn’t it will now. Sorry again!).
Every behavior has a reason behind it. It may be for communication, instinct or sometimes simply because they are bored. Here are some reasons why dogs love rolling in grass – (1)(2)
One probable reason is communication with other dogs. Dogs have an incredible smelling power. They have up to 300 million scent receptors (humans have only 6 million). Dogs know that other dogs have the same. This is why dogs tend to mark places they’ve been to with urine to let other dogs know they’ve been there and it’s their territory. Rolling in grass is another way of doing that.
One more reason could be, them disguising themselves. Dogs have had their fair share in the wild before we domesticated them around 40,000 years ago. Before that, they had to rely on their hunts for food. Rolling in the grass helps cover themselves up in another animal’s scent so that the prey cannot identify.
Another reason can be to get rid of a bad smell. And that can include the fresh flowery smell right after a shower. The idea of a good smell is different for us and them. And since they have such a strong sense of smell, some smells can be too overwhelming for them. Rolling in the good old grass can help neutralize the smell.
‘Doga’ could be another reason. No, we didn’t spell it wrong. It’s a dog’s version of ‘Yoga’. Dogs could just be stretching their joints after a nap. Rolling also helps in getting rid of loose fur and boosts blood circulation.
If not ‘Doga’, rolling in the grass could simply be for cooling down. Dogs don’t have sweat glands like we do. The moisture on grass helps cool down a dog, especially on a sunny day.
One of the most popular reasons that people think of why dogs roll in the grass is to scratch an itch.
One good reason might just be that they are happy. Haven’t you seen a happy dog? Jumping and pacing around in excitement. They’ll do all sorts of exaggerated behaviors. Rolling can just be one of them.
Another very good reason can be them showing a sign of trust in you. Exposing the belly is like a big deal for dogs. They only do it when they feel safe and secure. So, if you see your dog rolling in the grass and lying on their back, it’s them trying to tell you “Hey you, pretty human! I am glad that you’re my master. Here I am, lying down with all my vulnerabilities exposed to you because I trust you. But hey! Do not try to give me a belly rub or tickles right now. You’ll know when I’m asking for it.”
Should You Stop Your Dog from Rolling in Grass?
Most of the time it is not a cause of concern if your dog is rolling in the grass. If your dog is looking happy while doing it, then why would you not want that? However, if they end up rolling in poop or other dirty materials on the grass, it may not be a practice you want to encourage. Eating such things can also make them fall sick. (2)
How to Stop Your Dog from Rolling Around in Grass?
Dogs love the smell of poop, especially fox poop. (told you, their idea of a good smell is different from ours). You can get a fox poop shampoo for your dog (yes, they do exist). This will stop your dog from rolling in the grass to get rid of some smell.
If your dog is rolling in the grass for some other reason, then the best way to keep them off it is to train them. You can use positive reinforcement techniques to do so. Whenever you see your dog rolling (nope, not that), redirect them to something else like a toy. Once they get to it, praise them and offer them treats. You can even teach them to follow your commands like “Don’t” or “Come here”. (1)
How Do I Know If My Dog is Trying to Scratch an Itch?
You need to know when your dog is rolling to scratch an itch because it can be caused by fleas or allergies. If you see your dog constantly licking, rubbing or chewing a part of their body or headshaking or scooting throughout the day, there’s a high chance that they are rolling in the grass for the same reason. (3)
More about Spot Pet Insurance
While rolling in the grass is not a sign of a behavioral issue in dogs, it could be a sign of a skin disease or allergies. Some dog behaviors like eating dirt or poop can even cause gastrointestinal problems for them. This is where you’ll need a vet’s help. We can help you save 90% of all associated costs.
Spot accident and illness plans can be used with any licensed vet in Canada or the U.S. Whether you are home, or traveling to the U.S., veterinary services your pet receives for the diagnosis, treatment, or management of covered conditions can be eligible for reimbursement. Spot’s accident and illness plans can help cover a variety of conditions including broken bones, lacerations, aggression, kidney disease, diabetes, and more. With the addition of Wellness Riders for an extra cost, you can also receive reimbursements for wellness exams, certain vaccinations, dental cleanings, and more.
Learn more about dog insurance or get a free quote!
The resident animal enthusiast at Spot. I have a lifetime of pet parent experience. If it has fur, feathers, or scales, I’ve probably shared my home with it. I aim to be a reliable source, blending experience with a dedication to the well-being of pets.
VetDERM Clinic. (2018, January 16). What are the Signs of Itchiness in Dogs? :: VETDERM CLINIC. https://www.vetdermclinic.com/signs-itchiness-dogs/
Kelley, T. L. (2022, September 28). Why do dogs roll in the grass? Daily Paws. https://www.dailypaws.com/dogs-puppies/dog-behavior/why-do-dogs-roll-around-in-the-grass
