Dogs can seem pretty doggone strange sometimes – but there’s always an explanation.
Their unique instinctual behaviors and body language help them tell their two-legged parents what they need and how they’re feeling. Luckily, we’re here to translate! If you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “Why does my dog do that?” then look no further – the answers you need are right here!
Let’s dig in.
Why Do Dogs Drink From Toilets?
Your dog has a perfectly clean water bowl – why drink from the toilet bowl? There are two main reasons that dogs tend to develop this habit.
- Their water bowl is empty, or they can’t get to it. If your pooch is thirsty, they’ll drink water anywhere they can get it – so make sure the water dish is always full and accessible.
- The water has been sitting too long. Canines usually prefer cool water, especially if it’s moving. When the water bowl sits for a while, it gets warm and stagnant. It can also collect everyday household debris like animal fur and dust. Make sure you refresh your pup’s water every now and then so they don’t resort to toilet water!
Chemicals from toilet cleansers can be toxic for your dog to ingest, so it’s important to nip this behavior in the butt! Keep the lid on the toilet seat or the bathroom door closed to prevent your pooch from getting into trouble.
Why Does My Dog Roll Around in the Dirt?
Have you ever seen your dog plop down on the grass and start rolling around? It’s pretty adorable – but it also serves a purpose. One of the biggest motivators for rolling on the ground outdoors is scent, in a few different ways.
- They may roll in an area with a particularly strong smell to cover up their own scent. Most dog breeds have hunting instincts, which is where this may stem from.
- Sometimes, dogs will try to change their scent this way because they don’t like the way they currently smell. For example, if your dog doesn’t enjoy the aroma of doggy shampoo, he just might take a bath of his own – probably a mud bath, to the dismay of fur-parents.
- Rubbing themselves on the grass can be used to mark territory. That’s right – peeing isn’t the only way that dogs claim things as their own.
There are also a couple of reasons behind this behavior that are not scent related.
- If there’s an itch your pup can’t quite reach, scratching it against the ground can help relieve the sensation. If you notice your dog doing this or scratching often, you may want to take them to the vet. It could indicate allergies, infection, or a skin condition.
- Sometimes, believe it or not – dogs roll in the grass just for fun!
Remember – when dogs roll around outside, always check their fur afterwards. There is a decent possibility that they’ve rolled in another animal’s poo, especially if your dog is scent motivated.
Why Do Dogs Dig Holes?
Dogs don’t dig up your yard because they want to tick you off or ruin the garden – most often, they’re only following their canine instincts. Below are the most common reasons for digging.
- Looking for prey to hunt such as small, burrowing rodents.
- To “hide” things like toys, caught prey, or treats to save for later.
- Digging is a natural form of stress relief for dogs. They may start digging to relieve anxiety, frustration, or boredom.
- To regulate body temperature. When it’s hot outside, dogs sometimes dig holes to lay against the cool dirt. When it’s cold, they dig to create an insulated pocket they can warm up in.
Usually, dogs will only dig to escape the yard if they are not stimulated enough. Make sure your furry friends have plenty of toys, play time, and supervision outdoors!
When It’s a Problem
The above canine behaviors and habits are fairly normal. However, when it becomes a danger to your dog it’s important that they listen to you right away. If your pooch is not listening or having trouble understanding commands, then it’s time to enroll in professional dog training. At Perfect Pooches, our training is guaranteed to stick for life! Contact us today for access to dog training services and dog boarding services near you in Newton, New Jersey.