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Tag: dog zoomies

  • Why Your Dog Gets the Zoomies | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    Have you ever watched your dog suddenly get a wild look in their eyes, tuck their rear end low, and take off running like they’re being chased by invisible forces? If so, you’ve witnessed what dog parents lovingly call “the zoomies.” While it might look like your pup has lost their mind, this burst of energy is actually completely normal and has an official scientific name: Frenetic Random Activity Periods, or FRAPs.

    What Exactly Are Zoomies?

    Zoomies are sudden episodes where dogs run around at full speed, often in circles or figure-eight patterns. During these moments, your dog might bounce off furniture, race around the yard, or zoom from room to room with incredible energy. These episodes usually last just a few minutes, but they can be quite intense while they happen.

    Dr. Pamela J. Perry, a veterinary behavior expert, explains that there’s no single known cause for FRAPs. However, they seem to be your dog’s way of releasing built-up energy or relieving stress. Think of it as your dog’s version of a good workout or stress relief session.

    When Do Dogs Get the Zoomies?

    Zoomies can happen at various times, but some situations are more likely to trigger them:

    • When you come home from work (your dog missed you!)
    • Late in the evening, especially in puppies
    • During or after playtime
    • After using the bathroom (yes, really!)
    • When something exciting happens
    • During training sessions if your dog gets overstimulated

    Puppies and young dogs experience zoomies more often than older dogs, but some dogs continue having these energy bursts throughout their lives. Some pet parents can even trigger zoomies by playing in a certain way or making specific sounds their dog finds exciting.

    Are Zoomies Something to Worry About?

    The good news is that zoomies are completely normal and healthy. They won’t hurt your dog, and they’re actually a sign of a happy, energetic pup. However, you should watch your dog’s body language during these episodes. A happy dog having zoomies will look loose and wiggly, might have their tongue hanging out, and will often play bow when they stop running.

    If your dog looks tense, has wide eyes, or keeps their tail tucked tightly against their belly even after stopping, they might be stressed or scared rather than playful. In this case, you should help calm them down.

    Keeping Your Dog Safe During Zoomies

    While zoomies themselves are harmless, a dog running at full speed without watching where they’re going can get hurt. Here are some safety tips:

    • Keep your zooming dog away from stairs and slippery floors
    • Make sure they’re in a safe, enclosed area when off-leash
    • Remove breakable objects from their path
    • Grass is the best surface for zoomies, followed by carpet or packed dirt
    • Avoid letting them zoom on hard floors, ice, or unstable surfaces like gravel

    Managing Frequent Zoomies

    If your dog gets zoomies very often or at inconvenient times (like when you’re trying to sleep), they might be telling you they need more exercise and mental stimulation. Regular walks, play sessions, training activities, and puzzle games can help tire out your dog’s body and brain, potentially reducing excessive zoomies.

    Remember, watching your dog experience pure joy through zoomies can be one of the most entertaining parts of dog ownership. As long as your pup is safe and happy, let them enjoy their wild energy bursts. However, if you notice any signs of pain, fear, or anxiety during these episodes, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying issues.

    The zoomies are just another wonderful way our dogs show us their personalities and remind us why we love them so much!


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    Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.

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  • Expert explains the science behind dog zoomies

    Expert explains the science behind dog zoomies

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    Folks who have a dog in their family — or have previously had a dog as a pet — likely know the experience of their dog getting excited and hyper out of nowhere. Before you know it, they’re on the move — zooming around, running in circles and making your home or yard feel something like an obstacle course. Many dog lovers refer to this as “the zoomies,” but an expert explained to KSDK that there’s actually some science behind the behavior. Elsa Stuart, an associate veterinarian at Millis Animal Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, said the scientific term for the zoomies is a “frenetic random activity period.” It’s also known as a “FRAP.””Typically we see FRAPs happen at times of transition through the day, so it might be like when their owner gets home from work, or a guest is coming over,” Stuart said, adding that there are other times the zoomies can occur. “They seem random to us but I think if you think about what’s going on in your dog’s head, what they’ve encountered during that day it might make a little more sense that they need to blow off some steam,” Stuart told KSDK’s Kelly Jackson.The expert explained that having FRAPs are normal, but it’s important to know the difference between zoomies and anxiety. “Usually if they’re really loose and wiggly and carefree, that is a happy zoomie,” Stuart said.There are movements a dog can make that may seem like the zoomies, but could actually indicate anxiety and/or pain. “If their ears are pinned back. If their eyes are really wide and worried-looking. Or if their body seems tense,” Stuart said. See more in the video player above.

    ST. LOUIS (Video: KSDK, DR. ELSA STUART, CNN via CNN Newsource) —

    Folks who have a dog in their family — or have previously had a dog as a pet — likely know the experience of their dog getting excited and hyper out of nowhere.

    Before you know it, they’re on the move — zooming around, running in circles and making your home or yard feel something like an obstacle course.

    Many dog lovers refer to this as “the zoomies,” but an expert explained to KSDK that there’s actually some science behind the behavior.

    Elsa Stuart, an associate veterinarian at Millis Animal Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, said the scientific term for the zoomies is a “frenetic random activity period.” It’s also known as a “FRAP.”

    “Typically we see FRAPs happen at times of transition through the day, so it might be like when their owner gets home from work, or a guest is coming over,” Stuart said, adding that there are other times the zoomies can occur.

    “They seem random to us but I think if you think about what’s going on in your dog’s head, what they’ve encountered during that day it might make a little more sense that they need to blow off some steam,” Stuart told KSDK’s Kelly Jackson.

    The expert explained that having FRAPs are normal, but it’s important to know the difference between zoomies and anxiety.

    “Usually if they’re really loose and wiggly and carefree, that is a happy zoomie,” Stuart said.

    There are movements a dog can make that may seem like the zoomies, but could actually indicate anxiety and/or pain.

    “If their ears are pinned back. If their eyes are really wide and worried-looking. Or if their body seems tense,” Stuart said.

    See more in the video player above.

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