It’s a favorite pastime for many puppies! On bright green lawns, flip-flops are attractive—usually with legs held high. Is it freshly cut? New turf? even better.
Of course, most dog owners find this behavior amusing. Grass stains…maybe not so much (but hey, that’s why Groomit offers home and mobile dog grooming!)
Curious why dogs have this quirky habit? Or would you like to see if there is a better way to keep your dog clean between grooming appointments?
Let’s find out.
My dog keeps rolling on the grass. Is this normal behavior?
Yes.
There is absolutely no problem with your dog. As members of the canine family, dogs have a highly developed sense of smell. The outside world is full of scents your dog’s nose can only smell. Rolling on the grass is a way for dogs to gather information and communicate. Even though they are domesticated companions, pet dogs retain some of the instincts of their wolf ancestors.
This is 100% normal – albeit occasionally chaotic – behavior.
Most Common Reasons Dogs Roll on Grass
Dog behaviorists have discovered the following reasons why dogs roll in the hay. In their minds, dogs are:
mark their territory
This is the number one reason male dogs roll around in the grass. Just as they urinate on trees, rolling is a way of marking territory. By disturbing the grass with their bodies, they are basically depositing their unique scent for passing dogs to smell. It’s a non-verbal way of saying, “Listen, guys! I’m going to apply for this position for myself and let you know I live here.”
mask their smell
Another reason dogs roll in the grass is to mask their scent. Our four-legged friend eats whole grains from the bag, but that’s not always the case. Thousands of years ago, dogs had to hunt for food. To better track their prey, they pick up other scents in the grass—for example, where squirrels or other animals urinate or poop.
Dirty, right?
However, it works great! This strategy helped your dog’s ancestors hunt successfully. That’s why, even today, some dogs just like to roll on grass.
However, if your dog is rolling around in smelly litter or litter, it’s best to call the Groomit dog grooming team.
exchange scents
Here’s a fascinating tidbit of dog psychology…
Although you enjoy the smell of an aromatic shampoo after a bath, your dog may hate it. The same floral, coconut, or vanilla products that dog owners love will have dogs rolling around in the grass, trying to mask the smell with something more natural.
At Groomit, we understand the dog’s point of view.
That’s why our dog groomers are guaranteed to use all organic and non-toxic products.
scratching the uncomfortable itching
The following reasons may sound obvious, but they are. Sometimes, your dog will be itchy! Unlike humans (who have hands), dogs can’t go around their shoulders and scratch their backs. They have no flexibility.
So, a dog would roll on the grass to get to that spot.
Ah… so much better!
“Talk” to other dogs
This goes back to scent markers. Puppies and dogs roll on the grass so they can communicate with other people who live nearby. Does your dog often sniff on walks? Did he try to roll in front of the house where you know another dog lives?
Chances are, he’s leaving messages via scent.
play
Finally, kicking grass, soil and leaves is an old fun! Bored dogs may find this a form of entertainment. Kind of like digging a hole. Rolling body movements can relieve boredom and stress while also giving your dog some exercise.
final thoughts
In short, rolling around in the grass is normal. Dogs who do this regularly won’t suffer any harm, although they may be covered in neon green grass stains, especially if their coat is light-colored.
If your puppy looks a little green – or stinks to the sky with a roll of waste – download the Groomit app here Handy dog grooming today!
