Have you ever looked out the window and seen your dog rolling around in the grass? It’s a beautiful sight to behold. They often seem oblivious to the world around them as they enjoy the sensation of the grass on their bodies.
However, when you stop and think about it, grass can be pretty rough or sharp. Even if it’s soft, why do our dogs like to roll around on a patch of grass?
Well, seeing a dog do this is very funny. It sometimes makes you want to join in. No? Okay, just us! But, do dogs roll around in the grass for any particular reason, or is it just for fun?
As with many things dogs do, such as eating grass, or chasing their tails, the majority of experts agree that there are several reasons why a dog likes to stop, drop, and roll in the grass.
Today, we are going to find out why they do this. Maybe it’s to help them cool down? Or just to show that they are content and happy? Read on as we discuss the reasons behind this strange yet entertaining behavior.
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Why your dog stops, drops, and rolls in the grass
If you look closely at your dog while they rub themselves into the grass, you may notice a difference in their movements on occasions. Sometimes they just look like they’re having the time of their life and having fun.
But other times, it can appear as if they are trying to rub something off of their bodies. The truth is, rolling in the grass may serve numerous functions for your dog. Let’s take a look at some of the possible reasons below.
Removing unwanted smells
After you’ve bathed your pooch, do they immediately run for the door and look for something to roll around in? This can either be a lush patch of grass or the dirtiest possible space outside.
While you may think your pup smells divine after a bath, it doesn’t mean your dog agrees with you. Remember, a dog’s smell senses are much more sensitive than ours.
What smells good to us may be overwhelming and even irritating to them. When they roll in the grass, they could be trying to remove that heavily perfumed scent from their coat.
One dog is different from the next. Therefore, you should try out different bath products until you find a scent that you like and, more importantly, your dog doesn’t mind. There are odorless shampoos available as well as unscented perfumes that will please most pooches.
If these grooming products don’t work, just try and keep your dog away from mud and grass until they have dried after their bath.
Inherited from their wolf ancestry
Our domesticated pups have inherited many characteristics and behaviors from their wolf ancestors. One could be rolling around on patches of grass.
When wolves encounter a new odor, they will first sniff the scent and then roll in it. Therefore, they get the smell onto their body, especially around their neck or face.
Therefore, when the wolf returns to their pack, the other wolves will greet them and investigate the unique odor thoroughly. On occasions, one or more of the wolves will then follow this scent back to its origin to investigate further.
It is theorized that dogs may rub themselves in the grass because they can smell something new and interesting. Therefore, they want to bring the scent back to the pack but, in this instance, it’s your home and your family.
Scratching an itch
There’s nothing like a good scratch when you’re feeling itchy. The same goes for dogs. Rolling around in the grass could be a sign that your dog is alleviating a certain itch. Common issues with dogs include parasites such as fleas, mites, or ticks, skin infections, and skin allergies.
While dogs can scratch most areas of their bodies with their paws or teeth, other parts, such as their back, are harder to reach. So, rolling in the grass may be the only way to get rid of an itch.
If you notice your dog is rolling around the grass more frequently than usual or trying to scratch themselves more, we recommend taking them to a veterinarian. They should be able to identify an underlying cause, such as fleas or ticks, and then provide an effective treatment.
Cooling off
Next time you see your dog rolling around in the grass, take note of the temperature. On a particularly hot day, the grass on your lawn can be an attractive option to help your dog cool down. This is especially true if the grass is in the shade or a sprinkler has left water on the lawn’s surface. If this is the case, try and cool more areas of grass for your dog to enjoy.
Is it safe for your dog to roll in the grass?
Rolling around in lush greenery is not dangerous but what’s lurking under or within the grass can be problematic. Some lawns that are treated with pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers can be poisonous to dogs. Parts of grass plants, such as seed-heads in tall grasses, can be inhaled by dogs or even become lodged in their eyelids.
There’s also a higher risk of contracting fleas and other creepy crawlies in the grass. Some of these can bite or sting your pooch and leave bacteria that can cause diseases. There is also the risk of your dog catching viruses, parasites, and other pathogens hidden in the grass.
However, we don’t suggest keeping your dog away from grassy areas. Just make a judgment on whether you believe the grass is safe enough for your dog to enjoy a good roll about.
In Summary
There are many theories as to why your pup is rolling in the grass. Which one is true for your dog depends on different factors. One day it could mean they’re just happy while another day could mean they have an itch.
If you sense there is something wrong with your pet due to excessive itching or rolling in the grass, take them to a veterinarian immediately and make sure your pooch has an effective flea and tick treatment at all times.