The act of rolling in feces has intrigued dog owners for decades. After all, it’s one thing if your dog gets into something nasty in the yard and sniffs around in it. But when they seemingly voluntarily roll in it, it’s downright disgusting. But why do they do it? And more importantly, how can you stop them from doing it? Keep reading to learn more about why some dogs roll in poop.
Theories On Why Dogs Roll In Poop
While it’s not entirely clear why some dogs seem to enjoy the act of rolling in poop, there are a few theories that attempt to explain this behavior. One theory is that certain parasites, such as tapeworms, have eggs in their feces. When ingested, these eggs can hatch inside of the intestines, creating irritation and discomfort. Some believe that, by rolling in poop, a dog is attempting to relieve this discomfort.
The Link Between Rolling In Poop And Pleasure
Another theory suggests that, while it might seem gross to us, the act of rolling in poop provides some level of enjoyment to a dog. After all, the behavior looks similar to when they are nursing or enjoying a good belly rub. As such, it’s possible that the act of rolling in poop is their way of enjoying the same type of stimulation.
How To Stop Your Dog From Rolling In Poop
If your dog is exhibiting the signs of rolling in poop, then it’s important to address the problem right away. After all, while it might not be enjoyable for us, it can be dangerous for your dog. Untreated, it can lead to infections, illness, and intestinal distress. So, how can you help prevent them from doing it?
First and foremost, it’s important to make sure that there’s nothing physically wrong with your dog. A veterinarian can perform a number of tests to determine if there are any underlying health concerns that need to be treated. Once these have been ruled out, you can focus on preventing the problem from happening again.
There are a number of different ways that you can help. For starters, provide plenty of mental stimulation for your dog. This will help keep their mind occupied and away from areas that they might be inclined to seek out. Also, make sure to provide plenty of exercise and playtime. This will help burn off excess energy and keep their minds and bodies busy.
While there are a number of potential causes for this behavior, it can usually be prevented with a bit of attention. By providing plenty of mental, physical, and nutritional enrichment, you can ensure that they aren’t bored and aren’t seeking out other ways to entertain themselves.
Bottom Line
Rolling in poop is never an enjoyable experience for dog owners. After all, it’s disgusting and smelly. But even worse, it can lead to infection and other health issues if left untreated. Fortunately, there are many different ways that you can prevent it. By providing them with plenty of mental and physical stimulation, you can ensure that they stay occupied. If the problem persists, then it might be time to speak with a veterinarian. They’ll be able to determine if there’s anything medically wrong and, if so, treat the issue.
