Why Do Dogs Roll In Fox Poo? - 3 Possible Reasons

Share on:

Dogs seem particularly drawn to smelly substances such as fox poop. Once they find something pungent they won’t hesitate to roll around and cover themselves in the smell.

While it is not known for certain why dogs do this, there are a number of theories. These range from dogs using fox poop to mask their own scent to them simply liking the smell.

Why Are Dogs Attracted To Fox Poop?

Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0) - Ivan Radic

There is no proven explanation of why dogs love rolling fox poop but there are several theories:

1. To Cover Their Own Scent

One of the most popular theories is that dogs use fox poop to disguise their own scent.

This is an instinct that would’ve helped dogs when they used to hunt. The strong smell of the fox poo would mask the dog's smell. In theory, this would give the dogs a better chance to stalk their prey undetected.

Of course, dogs no longer have to worry about hunting their own food and foxes aren’t considered a prey species so fox poop seems like a strange choice. Despite this, strong-smelling fox poop appears to be the top choice of “perfume” for dogs.

2. To Bring The Smell Home

Another theory is that dogs roll in fox poo as a way to let others know what they have found. When the dog returns home, other pack members could then track the scent trail back to the source.

This is something that wild dogs sometimes do with carcasses. They roll in the carcass so that the others in the pack can follow the trail and locate the food source.

Maybe it is our dog's way of showing off to others how much fun they had on their walk!

3. Fox Poop Smells Great (To Them At Least)

It could simply be that dogs like the smell of fox poop and find it fun to roll around in it. Dogs experience the world through their incredible sense of smell and fox poo could be particularly stimulating for them.

Dogs see and experience the world in a very different way from us. While we hate the pungent smell of fox poop, it could be that dogs love it. Rolling in fox poop may be a rewarding experience for dogs.

If you’ve seen your dog roll around in fox poop, this theory is not hard to believe. They seem to thoroughly enjoy it.

Cleaning Your Dog When They Roll In Fox Poop

Attribution-NoDerivs 2.0 Generic (CC BY-ND 2.0) - Tambako The Jaguar

It’s often too late when we realise our dogs have found fox poop. The first thing to do when your dog has rolled in poop is to get it off as soon as possible.

The options may be limited while out on a walk but you can use pet-safe wipes or water to remove the worst of it. You may be tempted to use leaves or moss to try to remove the poo but there is a risk of rubbing the poo into the fur when trying to do this.

Fox Poop Needs To Be Washed Out

Unfortunately, the only way to truly rid your dog of the lingering smell of fox poop is to thoroughly wash them. Lots of water and a pet-friendly shampoo are essential.

When you get home, use the shower or garden hose to wash the poop off of their coat. Then, use a dog shampoo to thoroughly wash the area. The shampoo is necessary to remove the strong odour of the poop. There are even fox poo shampoos available designed to eradicate the musky smell.

After you’ve washed your dog, remove their collar as this will need a good clean too.

How To Prevent Your Dog From Rolling In Fox Poop

Strong recall or teaching a “leave it” command will help prevent your dog from rolling in fox poop. When on walks, keep an eye on your dog and recall them if you think they are showing particular interest in one area.

If you know certain areas are hot spots for foxes and fox poop, put your dog on their lead. Grassy areas near hedges tend to be common places for fox poop.

How To Spot Fox Poop

Fox poo can be difficult to spot, it looks similar to dog poop but is darker with pointy ends. The smell of fox poop is very distinctive, it is strong and musky. Fox poop is often found in grassy areas and can also be found in gardens too.

It is likely your dog will spot the poop before you so be vigilant when on walks. If your dog is sniffing one area for longer than normal, consider recalling them until you go past the spot.

Can Dogs Get Ill From Rolling In Fox Poop?

CC0 1.0 Universal (CC0 1.0) Public Domain Dedication - Rlevse

No, dogs won’t get ill from rolling in fox poop but they can get sick from eating it. If your dog eats the fox poop (or licks it off their fur) they are exposing themselves to parasites and diseases.

Dogs that eat fox poop are at risk of catching tapeworm, roundworm, lungworm, and hookworm. This is why it is best to avoid fox poo and other animal faeces when out on walks.