"Food Synesthesia": why do dogs prefer stinky food?
Updated 17 October 2026
In short: for a dog, smell matters more than taste: it has hundreds of millions of olfactory receptors, but about five times fewer taste buds than we do. Smells of decay or fermentation often signal protein and fat, attractive to a descendant of predators and opportunistic scavengers. People sometimes talk of "food synaesthesia" to describe this blend of smell and taste, but it's an image, not a scientific term.
Why does smell matter more than taste for dogs?
These figures are commonly cited estimates, but the gap is clear: a dog "tastes" with its nose first. As it chews, aromas also travel up to the nose from the back of the mouth (the retronasal route). It also has a vomeronasal organ, in the roof of the mouth behind the incisors, mainly sensitive to pheromones.
Why are strong smells so attractive to dogs?
Putrescine and cadaverine, produced as proteins break down, repel us. For an animal that long made use of scraps and carcasses, they can signal food.
The smell of animal fats and fermentation (cheese, fish) signals energy-rich food.
Why roll in a carcass or dung? The hypotheses (masking its own scent, bringing information back to other dogs) are unproven.
The wolf is only a hunter.
FALSEWolves hunt but also eat carcasses. Dogs inherited this opportunism.
Eating poo is always abnormal.
IT DEPENDSCoprophagia is fairly common, especially in puppies. If it's frequent or sudden in an adult, talk to your vet.
What smells good to a dog must be safe.
FALSEA carcass or bin may contain bacteria, parasites or toxic foods. See foods to avoid.
What can you change in your dog's meals?
- Serve lukewarm or at room temperatureFood straight from the fridge gives off little aroma.
- Consider wet foodWet food or slightly moistened kibble smells stronger.
- Save the smelliest rewards for trainingSmall pieces of cheese or cooked meat, in limited amounts.
- Don't trust your own noseFood that seems bland to you can be very appealing to it.
A dog that suddenly turns down its usual food may have a health problem (teeth, blocked nose, digestion): see a vet if it doesn't eat for more than a day or two.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my dog love cheese?
Fermentation gives off strong fat and protein smells that dogs find very appealing. Give only small amounts.
Why does my dog roll in bad smells?
We don't know exactly: masking its scent or carrying back information are unproven hypotheses.
Why does my dog eat poo?
Coprophagia is common in puppies and may be linked to smell, boredom or a digestive problem. Ask your vet if it persists.
Should I warm wet food?
Lukewarm or at room temperature, it smells stronger. Never hot.