Supports lean muscle, for dogs who prefer smaller kibble
Supports lean muscle and beautiful coat for adult dogs
Supports healthy joints, lean muscle, and beautiful coat for large breed dogs
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Grain free, easy-to-digest food that is gentle on the stomach. Nourishes skin & promotes lustrous fur.
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
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Dog behaviorists can tell us why your dog gnaws your shoes (nerves or boredom), chases squirrels (because it's fun), and "runs" in his sleep (he's dreaming). But there are some behaviors that leave even the most experienced scientists scratching their heads. That includes one of the most perplexing dog hobbies: rolling in stinky things. From dead fish to poop, some dogs just like to cover themselves in odiferous smells that leave their owner gasping in wrinkly-nosed disgust. Whether you understand or not, here's how to cope.
While there's no definitive answer, there are many theories about why dogs roll in poop and other smelly things. Mother Nature Network has laid out the most popular theories, including these two:
No matter the reason, you probably just want your dog to stop this maddening activity that brings him so much joy and you so much grimy carpet. So how can you halt this behavior? You likely won't be able to curb whatever instinct is driving your dog, but you can limit his opportunities.
When you're on a walk, keep your dog on a leash in places where you know he's likely to stop, drop and roll. Pick up poop in your yard as soon as your rolling-happy dog does his business, and keep an eye out for dead animals, mud or other hazards. You can also teach your dog to obey a basic command like "leave it" or "come" that will lure him toward positive attention instead of messes.
Dogs also have a knack for getting into garbage. While most of the time this is because they are looking for an extra snack you might have thrown away, they are not above rolling around in the garbage, especially if it is particularly stinky. Make sure to secure your trash cans so that your dog cannot get into them to help prevent smelling stinky garbage everywhere your dog decides to go in the house after.
As hard as you try, sometimes one whiff tells you your dog found his way to his super stinky happy place when you weren't paying attention. You're going to have to clothespin your nose and lather him up. There are odor-neutralizing shampoos on the market, some of which include orange oil (recognized as a safe deodorizer and degreaser for malodorous mutts).
Another option is to mix baking soda, hydrogen peroxide and a gentle liquid dish soap in a metal bowl. Bathe your dog in the mixture, but be careful to avoid his eyes because it can burn. Rinse the dog very well when you're done. This home remedy was actually proven to work on an old episode of MythBusters.
If your dog likes to come home smelling like poo-fume rather than perfume, we're sorry. But you can overcome this stinky situation by paying close attention to your pup outdoors and keeping pet-safe cleaning supplies on hand. After all, stinky dogs deserve love, too.
Kara Murphy is a freelance writer and pet parent who lives in Erie, Pa. She has a goldendoodle named Maddie.
Supports lean muscle, for dogs who prefer smaller kibble
Advanced nutrition to support hip & joint health from day 1
Supports healthy joints, lean muscle, and beautiful coat for large breed dogs
Supports lean muscle and beautiful coat for adult dogs
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Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.