Dog Zoomies: Why Your Pup Rockets Around at High Speed
Key takeaways:
Zoomies (also known as frenetic random activity periods, or FRAPs) are a fun and harmless way a dog expends excess energy. Puppies and young dogs get them more often than adult dogs.
Keeping a dog’s environment safe will avoid potential risks during zoomies.
When a dog gets zoomies more regularly or overnight, it’s a sign that they need more physical exercise and mental enrichment.
If you’ve ever wondered why your dog runs around in circles in the backyard or around the coffee table, seemingly out of nowhere, you’ve come to the right place. As a witness to this delightful behavior, it’s impossible not to feel joy seeing your furry friend be active and excited.
Keep reading to find out what this common canine activity means, what to do when it happens, and when (if at all) to worry.
Dog zoomies, defined
Dog zoomies — also known as frenetic random activity periods (FRAPs) — are periods of random bursts of energy with no specific cause.
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“They typically look like fast laps around a coffee table or bursts out the door into the yard with [a] tucked tush,” says Dr. Natalie Marks, a veterinarian at VCA Blum Animal Hospital in Chicago.
Zoomies are more common in puppies and younger adult dogs. However, all dogs can exhibit this behavior once in a while.
Is there a difference between zoomies and other hyper or anxious behavior?
Zoomies typically represent a happy dog expressing a rush of physical energy. Here are signs, according to Dr. Marks, that a dog is happy during zoomies:
Relaxed body
Tongue out
Tucked tush
May do a “bow” here and there, inviting to play
However, when a dog is stressed during zoomies, their body language changes. Here are signs your dog may be stressed:
Tense, with a tucked tail all the time
Ears folded back
Low head
Dilated pupils (wide eyes)
Panting excessively
If your dog shows signs of stress during zoomies, it may be time for a visit to your veterinarian. They can help you diagnose any potential issues that may be contributing to your dog’s stress. A vet can also recommend treatment options or refer you to an animal behaviorist for more help.
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Why do dogs get the zoomies?
Based on what we know, there is no scientific reason behind why dogs get the zoomies.
However, Dr. Marks says one theory suggests the zoomies are a way to release energy or stress. Zoomies may occur “after extreme excitement, like when a pet parent returns home after a long day.”
Dogs may also get the zoomies during play or training if they are overstimulated.
What are common triggers for zoomies?
While there is no proof of the specific cause, the following are some common times dogs may exhibit FRAPs:
Around and during playtime
When something exhilarating happens
When their human(s) returns home from work or being away
When overstimulated
After pooping
How should I respond to my dog when they get the zoomies?
Dog zoomies are adorable moments to enjoy. Just be sure to keep the environment safe for your dog to easily express their excitement.
“Keep dogs away from stairs, slippery floors, and the road or other hazards,” recommends Dr. Marks.
Your backyard may have areas that are off limits for the dog, such as flower beds or potential risks like large holes. Use a barrier or a large yellow cone to block your dog’s access.
Similarly, when the zoomies happen indoors, keep an eye on your dog and remove anything in the dog’s path that could harm them. “You can intervene with a toy or game or other type of enrichment,” says Dr. Marks.
If the zoomies occur at the dog park, Dr. Marks suggests keeping a careful eye to make sure your dog doesn’t interfere with other pets.
For the most part, after a couple of rounds, your dog will wear themselves out.
How do you calm down a dog with the zoomies?
If your pup gets the zoomies a lot, or overnight, your dog may need more exercise and enrichment. To calm your dog overall, add in more games and activities that stimulate your dog both physically and mentally.
“Try adding in either longer or more frequent walks, or try a new activity like nose work, agility, or even a swimming class,” says Marks.
Nose work involves the canine using their excellent sense of smell to seek out different scents hidden in boxes, indoors or outdoors. Additionally, using treat puzzles, playing hide-and-seek, and changing up their routine on walks can also help your dog receive more mental enrichment.
You can also train your dog (especially puppies) using positive reinforcement. Give your pup a reward such as a treat when they’re calm and laying down.
Do dogs outgrow zoomies?
FRAPs are common among puppies and young adult dogs. But zoomies can continue well into adulthood. Adult dogs just don’t typically get the zoomies as often as younger pups.
The bottom line
Zoomies are a natural part of a happy dog’s life. They are random bursts of energy your dog expresses by running around in circles, with their tongue out and tush tucked in. While they are fun to watch, it’s important to keep your dog safe from potential risks like running into furniture or falling down stairs. If your dog gets the zoomies more regularly (rather than periodically), it’s a sign that they may need more physical and mental enrichment. You can provide more activity through increased exercise and play.
Why trust our experts?
References
Bergman, L. (2020). Dog training: How to use rewards. VeterinaryPartner.
Best Friends Animal Shelter. (n.d.). Dog nose work: Scent training sport for dogs.
Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine. (2016). What are zoomies?.
Seksel, K., et al. (2014). Stress and anxiety - How do they impact the pet?. World Small Animal Veterinary Association World Congress Proceedings.
VCA Animal Hospitals. (n.d.). VCA Blum Animal Hospital.
