Stop Your Dog from Rolling in Fox Poo: Proven Tips

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Ever turned your back for a moment on a walk, only to find your dog gleefully rolling in fox poo? The smell, the mess—it’s enough to test the patience of any dog owner. But while this behaviour might seem baffling (and revolting), it’s completely natural for dogs.

So, why do dogs roll in fox poo? And more importantly, how can you stop it? With the right understanding and strategies, you can keep your dog clean and your walks worry-free.

Why Do Dogs Roll in Fox Poo? Understanding the Instincts

Before jumping into prevention tips, it’s essential to understand why dogs are so drawn to fox poo.

🐺 Instinctive Camouflage

In the wild, dogs’ ancestors used strong scents to mask their own, helping them avoid predators or sneak up on prey. Fox poo, with its potent smell, serves as the perfect “natural perfume” for this purpose.

Could your domesticated pup still be channelling their inner hunter? It’s likely!

🐾 Scent-Based Communication

Dogs explore the world through scent. Some theories suggest they roll in strong smells like fox poo to “bring back” interesting scents to their pack—a form of canine storytelling.

In other words: Your dog may just be sharing their latest “discovery” with you!

🐶 Sensory Enjoyment

What’s disgusting to us might be delightful for dogs. With a sense of smell up to 100,000 times more powerful than ours, dogs detect layers of information in scents. Fox poo might just be an irresistible olfactory adventure.

🤔 Attention-Seeking Behaviour

Dogs are smart. If rolling in fox poo results in a big reaction—shouting, rushing home for a bath—they might see it as an effective way to get your attention.

Sound familiar? It’s possible your dog is simply looking for a little extra engagement.

How to Stop Your Dog from Rolling in Fox Poo: Proven Strategies

While you may not be able to eliminate this behaviour entirely (instincts run deep!), these practical strategies can help minimise it.

🎯 1. Train a Reliable Recall

A solid recall command (“Come!”) can be a lifesaver. The moment your dog shows interest in something suspicious, call them back.

Top tips for effective recall:

Practice in distraction-free environments first.
Use high-value treats—think chicken or cheese.
Celebrate big when your dog comes running.

💡 Make coming back to you more rewarding than rolling in that irresistible pile.

🛑 2. Master the “Leave It” Command

“Leave it” is one of the most powerful commands for preventing undesirable behaviours.

How to train it:

Start with treats in your hand.
Close your hand when your dog investigates.
Only reward when they pull away.
Gradually increase the challenge with more tempting items.

✨ With consistency, “leave it” becomes second nature.

🐕 3. Keep Your Dog on a Leash in High-Risk Areas

If you know foxes frequent a particular route, consider using a lead—especially during early morning or late evening walks when fox activity peaks.

Try a long lead for freedom without compromising control.

🎾 4. Distract and Redirect

Stay one step ahead. If you see your dog showing too much interest in a patch of grass:

Call them enthusiastically.
Offer a toy or engage in a quick training session.
Use treats to lure them away.

The goal? Make you and the activity you offer more exciting than the fox poo.

🌿 5. Avoid Known Fox Hotspots

Prevention is often easier than cure. If certain areas are prone to fox activity, switch up your routes or stick to clear paths.

Less temptation = cleaner walks.

🛁 6. Maintain Regular Grooming

A well-groomed dog may be less inclined to roll in strong-smelling substances. Plus, regular baths mean you’re better prepared if accidents happen.

Bonus tip: Use shampoos designed to neutralise odours, not just mask them.

🎉 7. Reward Good Choices

Did your dog choose not to roll in that suspicious spot? Celebrate it!

Offer a treat.
Use excited praise.
Engage in a favourite game.

Positive reinforcement strengthens the behaviours you want to see repeated.

🌸 8. Try Dog-Safe Scent Deterrents

Some owners find that lightly spraying their dog with dog-safe scent deterrents reduces the appeal of fox poo. These sprays mask the scent allure and may break the rolling habit.

Important: Always patch-test any product to ensure your dog has no reaction.

💬 Final Thoughts: Patience, Practice, and Persistence

While you might not be able to completely change your dog’s instincts, you can manage their behaviour. By understanding the reasons behind their love for fox poo and applying consistent training, you’ll reduce these unpleasant incidents significantly.

Patience, positive reinforcement, and clever distractions are your best tools. Soon, walks will be cleaner, more enjoyable, and far less smelly!

✨ Because every dog deserves a great walk—and every owner deserves to skip the post-walk bath.