Why do dogs roll in dead things?

Question

Dogs seem to search for manure and/or dead things to roll in. Why is this? My best friend lives on a ranch and has two outdoor dogs who always roll in horse manure. Why??? It's disgusting!

Answer 1

This is a trait inherited from wolves that has stayed, they roll in dead things and often times feces or anything strong smelling to hide their own scent. It helped while hunting so they could sneak up more easily on their prey.

Answer 2

The accepted theory is that it relates back to before dogs were domesticated. They were (and are) predators, so what better way to sneak up on supper, than to roll in something stinky to mask their natural scent. It is nasty! My dogs love to roll in horse manure, or even better, some nice ripe roadkill!

Answer 3

Because it smells so delicious! You've got to admit, dogs like the smell.

Dogs also roll on their toys. I think both of these behaviors stem from wild dogs and wolves covering themselves in the scent of their prey (fallen deer, etc.). This is often believed to mask their scent so they can better sneak up on more prey.

Answer 4

That's because they like the smells that come from such disgusting objects. Dogs have a very good sense of smell and apparently, these things smell good to them.

Answer 5

They are leaving their scent so other dogs know they were there. Other times they just pee

I have two small white housedogs, and they are just as bad as the big ones!! peeyoo!!