Strange Things Dogs Do - Explained by Science
Dogs are loyal, loving, and endlessly entertaining. But let’s face it, they also do some weird stuff. Whether it’s rolling in mystery smells, eating socks, or barking at a blank wall, our furry friends are full of behaviours that make us scratch our heads.
As professional pet sitters and walkers, we’ve seen it all, and we’ve done the research. Here are some of the strangest things dogs do, and the science behind why they do them.
Why Do Dogs Roll in the Grass (or Something Gross)?
The Behaviour: You’ve just bathed your dog. They sprint outside... and immediately roll in the grass, dirt, or worse, something dead!
The Science: This goes back to their wild ancestry. Wolves roll in strong smells to bring information back to the pack. It’s believed dogs do the same, it’s their version of showing off or “wearing” a scent like perfume.
Why Do Dogs Steal (and Chew) Shoes?
The Behaviour: Your favourite runners have become a chew toy. Again!
The Science: Dogs explore the world with their mouths, and shoes carry your scent, making them comforting. Chewing also helps relieve stress and boredom, especially in puppies.
A daily walk and some mental stimulation (like a puzzle toy) can help cut down shoe destruction. That’s where we come in!
Why Do Dogs Stare at Walls or Seem to “See” Something?
The Behaviour: Your dog is suddenly still, staring at a blank corner like they’ve seen a ghost.
The Science: Dogs have sharper hearing and smell than us. What looks like nothing to you might be a distant high-pitched noise (like an appliance) or a scent trail. They may also stare during seizure episodes or age-related cognitive issues, especially in older dogs. This is always worth mentioning to your vet if it’s frequent.
Why Do Dogs Spin Before Lying Down?
The Behaviour: Your dog does a few slow turns before settling into their bed.
The Science: This is a genetic leftover from wild canines who would spin to flatten grass and check for snakes or threats before resting. It's instinctive…even on your couch!
Why Do Dogs Eat Grass (Even If It Makes Them Vomit)?
The Behavior: Munch munch... vomit.
The Science: Grass eating is super common and mostly harmless. Some theories suggest dogs eat grass to induce vomiting, while others believe it's for fibre or simply because they like the taste. If it’s excessive, chat with your vet.
Why Do Dogs “Scoot” Their Butts on the Floor?
The Behaviour: That awkward moment when your dog drags their behind across your rug during a dinner party.
The Science: Usually it means itchy anal glands, or possibly worms or irritation. It's not just embarrassing, it can signal a need for a vet check or a gentle gland expression.
Why Do Dogs Chase Their Tails?
The Behaviour: Endless spinning in circles, chasing that elusive tail.
The Science: Puppies often do this as play, but in adults it can signal boredom, anxiety, or even OCD-like behaviour in some breeds. More walks and playtime often help.
Why Do Dogs Bark at Nothing?
The Behaviour: There’s silence outside... but your dog is suddenly alert and barking like someone broke in.
The Science: Again, this often comes down to superior hearing. Dogs may bark at a noise you can’t hear, like a dog barking several blocks away or a distant car door.
In some cases, it can also be attention-seeking - they bark, you react.
Final Thoughts: Dogs Are Weird and Wonderful
From mysterious rolls in the mud to staring contests with walls, dogs have a quirky way of experiencing the world. Most of these behaviours are normal (and even charming), but if your dog suddenly changes behaviour or seems distressed, it’s always worth speaking to your vet.
At happy Hounds we love all the weird, wacky, and wonderful personalities we meet! Whether it’s high-energy sniffers or wall-staring daydreamers, we tailor every walk and sit to your pet’s unique style.