If your dogs are anything like mine, they love rolling in the grass… especially if there’s something extra stinky on it! But why do dogs roll in the grass?
Dogs have many behaviors that remain a mystery to us, no matter how long we have lived with them.
One such behavior is rolling in the grass. While it might seem like a dog is just trying to get dirty, there’s more to this behaviour than meets the eye.
There are a few theories as to why dogs roll in the grass. The following are the theories that make the most sense and are supported by some evidence.
1. It’s a Way to Get Attention
Dogs are social creatures that crave attention from their humans. If they feel like they’re not getting enough attention, they might engage in attention-seeking behaviours like barking or whining. Rolling in the grass is another way that dogs can get our attention.
While this theory makes sense, it’s not supported by much evidence. You’ll probably know if your dog is rolling in the grass to get your attention. They’ll likely make eye contact with you or look at you expectantly after they finish rolling.
2. It Feels Good
Another theory is that rolling in the grass feels good to dogs. This makes sense when you think about it from a dog’s perspective. Moving around in something soft and calm can be very pleasurable, especially on a hot day.
This theory is also supported by the fact that dogs will often roll in the grass after a bath. This could be because they’re trying to get rid of the weird feeling of being clean or because they want to enjoy the sensation of rolling in something soft and cool again.
3. It’s a Way to Spread Their Scent
Dogs have a strong sense of smell, and they use this sense to communicate with other dogs. When a dog urinates, they leave its scent behind. This is how other dogs know that they’ve been there.
Rolling in the grass is another way that dogs can spread their scent. By rolling in the grass, they can pick up the smell of other animals and spread it around. This might be a way for them to mark their territory or communicate with other dogs.
4. It’s an Instinctual Behavior
Another theory is that rolling in the grass is an instinctual behaviour. This means that it’s something that dogs are born knowing how to do. It’s not something they learn from their parents or other dogs.
Puppies will sometimes roll in the grass even if they’ve never seen another dog do it. This suggests that it’s something that they’re born knowing how to do.
5. It’s a form of Play
Dogs may roll in the grass simply because they enjoy it. This behaviour might be a form of play for them. Dogs are often seen rolling around in the grass with other dogs. This suggests that they see it as a fun activity.
6. It’s a Way to Get Rid of Fleas
Another theory is that dogs roll in the grass to get rid of fleas. This makes sense because fleas are often found in grassy areas. By rolling in the grass, dogs can remove fleas from their fur.
Final remarks on why dogs roll in the grass
Dogs have many weird and wonderful habits that often puzzle us. Those mentioned above are only some theories as to why dogs roll in the grass.
No one knows why they do this, but it likely serves multiple purposes. Whatever the reason, it’s clear that dogs enjoy this behaviour, and it’s not harmful to them.
So, if you see your dog rolling in the grass, don’t worry – they’re just being a dog!
