Why Do Dogs Roll In Grass, Dirt and Smelly Things?

8. Is It Harmful?

In most cases, rolling isn't harmful at all. Aside from medical causes or anxiety, dogs typically roll for benign reasons. Even rolling in foul-smelling things like feces or roadkill is usually safe for your dog, though you should probably give him a bath before hugging him or letting him in the house. Be careful not to let your dog roll in grass that has been freshly treated with pesticides or certain other substances, however, as some can be absorbed by the skin and are toxic to dogs.