Why Do Dachshunds Roll In The Grass

Have you ever wondered why your pup likes to roll around in the grass so much? Dachshunds seem to enjoying wiggling the most, although this is considered a primal instinct in dogs, regardless of breed. Is rolling around in the grass just an innocent display of joy or should you have something to worry about? Many pet owners have come to the conclusion that rolling in the grass is as natural for their dogs as sniffing, but there are several explanations that need your undivided attention. Let’s look at the most common causes for rolling in the grass and how you can keep your Dachshund safe from potential danger.

Virtually everyone who owns a dog is familiar with this type of behavior. Even though the breed does not play a part in the frequency or cause of this reaction, we have all seen those adorable Dachshund videos having the time of their life rolling in the grass. So why do they do it? Is it simply a manifestation of their happiness? It very well may be… your Dachs may be rolling in the grass just because it feels good and nothing more. It is like when you find a soft area to cushion the body and stretch out. If you want to be certain that there are no other factors involved, you will need to pay more attention to the behavior and check for signs of uneasiness or discomfort. A Dachshund with something really irritating on his back may roll around more frantically than a dog who is just enjoying the warm grass. 

It is believed that this type of reaction is closely linked to the dog’s ancestors – the wolves, who exhibit the same type of behavior as a way to bring information back to the pack. They may be essentially trying to get the newly encountered scent on their body, especially around the face and neck. Another reason your Dachs may be rolling in the grass could be that the new smell helps to disguise their scent from their prey or because they are desperately trying to get rid of unwanted odors. You may have noticed this when trying to give your pup a bath… he will immediately look for something to roll around in to get rid of that heavily-perfumed smell. Itchy skin could also be a factor in this and sometimes it can be an indication of an underlying health issue such as skin allergies, external parasites or skin infections.

Finding the right cause of the behavior will help you establish a proper way to deal with the situation. If your dog seems to be itchier than normal, you should have him examined by a vet to identify the underlying reason and treat it accordingly. In case you haven’t already done this, you will also need to put your Dachshund on an effective flea and tick preventive regimen. Make sure he is up to date on all his vaccines and watch out for lawns that are treated with fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides, as these can be poisonous for your pooch. 

If your Dach is simply happy to be there, keep an eye on all things that excite your little furry friend, as they may become a sign of an obsessive-compulsive disorder. Training is very important because it will keep your pup away from possible distractions, so use positive reinforcement each time you see it coming. Special treats can easily do the trick, but you can also keep him engaged in fun games and rewards so that he forgets the potential object, animal, or person which may excite him. Although training can be a bit daunting sometimes, we guarantee it is nothing compared to bathing your Dachshund over and over again.

Speaking of bathing, how often does your Dachshund run around the room, then roll on the ground to dry off? The post-bathing ritual is important not only because of the Dachshund’s fear of running or deep water but also for your peace of mind. After the bath, make sure there is no way for him to get outside as he will most likely roll in the dirt once again and could also get sick. Furthermore, if you don’t want him to rub against your furniture, put a towel down for him – preferably on a soft surface. The idea is not to stop them from rolling around, but to make sure bathing becomes a positive experience.

Dachshunds enjoy wiggling in the grass and there is no need to prevent them from doing so. If you see any signs of underlying health issues, the best you can do is make an appointment with your veterinary provider and have him examined for fleas, ticks, or other dermatological conditions. It is usually nothing to be concerned about, so next time you bring your Dachshund to the park, be sure to have the camera with you as well.