First, you should congratulate yourself on having a very normal, well-adjusted pooch. For some reason, things like dead animals, manure, and garbage are magnets to dogs, and there is nothing in the world they’d rather smell like. Some people theorize that dogs’ instinct tells them that the terrible smells will cover up their scent and make it easier for them to sneak up on prey.
Maybe so, or maybe they just like to smell awful! Regardless of why they do it, the best way for you to stop your doggy from diving into the garbage pile is never giving him the chance.
Keep him fenced in your yard, pick up any manure in the area, and keep the garbage in trash cans that won’t pop open if he knocks them over. Keep him on a leash when you go on walks, and keep a sharp eye out for any smelly things that may strike his fancy.
Working on the “come” command may help as well. Practice it over and over again in your yard, and give her a reward every time she comes. Repeat it until she comes consistently, so that the next time you see her start rolling, you can call her back. And, of course, you should invest in some very good doggie shampoo. Just in case.
Information courtesy of The American Animal Hospital Association
Tags: behavioral, Canine, Dog, FAQs, rolling in stinky things