It’s a mystery that’s baffled pet owners for generations: why do dogs love to roll in fox poo? In this blog, we’ll explore the possible reasons behind this repeated behaviour, how to get rid of the odour, and what you can do to stop your pet rolling in fox poo in the future.
Why do dogs roll in fox poo?
Experts aren’t 100% sure why dogs are so drawn to fox poo, but there are a few popular theories:
- Camouflage: Before domestication, dogs needed to mask their scent to hunt or avoid becoming prey – rolling in fox faeces disguises their natural scent.
- Sensory behaviour: Some experts believe dogs enjoy the act of rolling as a sensory-seeking activity, it could simply be a dopamine hit!
- They love the smell: Dogs experience the world through smell. With over 300 million olfactory receptors (compared to our 6 million), dogs interpret smells very differently from us. What seems disgusting to us can smell like perfume to a pup.
What does fox poo look and smell like?
The first sign your dog has encountered fox poo is usually the smell. The Woodland Trust describes fox poo as having a distinctive musky smell, sometimes similar to that of a skunk.
Just like all animals, fox poo can be different depending on diet, location and age of the animal. Fox poo is typically dark brown or black. It may appear lighter when a fox lives in more urban areas due to more human food waste in their diet. It can be slimy and look wet, and often contains a mix of fur, feathers, bones, seeds and berries. Fox poo will look like dog poo, but will usually have one pointed end.
How to get rid of fox poo off your dog
If your lovely walk has an unfortunate ending with your dog rolling in fox poo, you might be tempted to try old tricks like ketchup—but that’s not an ideal solution.
Introducing the Johnsons Fox Poo Shampoo!
Made in the UK, our new Fox Poo Shampoo is expertly formulated with vegan, paraben-free ingredients to neutralise odours and leave your dog’s coat smelling fresh.
For a medium-sized dog, like a Border Collie, follow these simple steps:
- Dilute 30ml of shampoo in 150ml of warm water.
- Rinse your dog’s coat thoroughly with warm water.
- Massage the shampoo mixture into the coat, working up a good lather.
- Rinse well to remove all residue. Repeat the wash if needed.
We recommend wearing gloves to avoid any fox poo residue on your hands. Be gentle around the eyes and mouth, ensuring no product enters. After bathing, keep your dog warm whilst drying and brush through their coat to remove knots and any leftover debris. Finish with our Dog Deodorant Spray to complete their pamper session.
Is fox poo dangerous?
Yes, fox poo can be dangerous to both pets and humans. It may contain roundworm, which can cause health issues in dogs and even toxocariasis in children. Although rare, it’s best to remove fox droppings from your garden using thick gloves and fox repellent.
Dogs also tend to eat the faeces of other animals, which can lead to parasitic infections like hookworm or tapeworm. These parasites can be especially dangerous for puppies. Make sure to follow a worming routine, which should be based on your pet’s lifestyle and exposure to risk.
How to stop your dog rolling in fox poo
If you’re fed up of your dog rolling in fox poo, it’s time to make some changes. Here are 4 simple tips to help curb your dog’s smelly habit:
- Teach the ‘Leave it’ command. Practice at home and reward consistently to get the best results.
- Work on recall. A reliable recall can stop your dog before they find a smelly patch.
- Use a long lead rather than letting your dog off lead. This allows freedom whilst maintaining control.
- Make walks more engaging. Bring toys, treats, and explore new environments to stimulate your dog mentally and physically.
It can feel like an impossible task to keep your dog smelling fresh and out the way of fox poo, but with a little training and the right products, you can help your dog stay clean and fresh.
