Why does my dog do that? Weird dog behaviors explained

Why do dogs roll around in disgusting, smelly stuff?

Animal poop, a dead frog, decomposing garbage… the nastier, the stinkier, the BETTER! Why on earth would our dogs enjoy rolling in disgusting, stinky stuff? There are a few different theories on the topic.

The most popular theory says this is a trait carried down from their wild ancestors. Experts believe dogs roll in stinky stuff to mask their own scent, making it easier to sneak up on prey. While the wild dogs’ prey could probably smell a stinked-up dog coming from a mile away, they wouldn’t expect to be attacked by something that smells like it’s already dead.

Other theories say that rolling in something gross is a way for dogs to advertise to others that they’ve found something awesome. Some have suggested that dogs do it, particularly after baths or when recently groomed, to get rid of a perfume or soap that they don’t like the smell of. And, another theory says that the oils and fats of decomposing animals or garbage act as a skin and coat conditioner, an ancestral beauty regimen of sorts.

Our next weird behavior isn’t gross, but it’s certainly odd! Many dogs, at mealtime, will scoop up a mouthful of their food and move to another location (usually to your expensive area rug, right?) to eat it. Why do they do this? Click NEXT!

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