If you're new to the world of dogs, you're probably wondering what in the world zoomies are. Because zoomies are a trait typical to dogs, it only seems appropriate that it has an adorable and fun-loving name. If you have a dog or puppy, there's a good chance that you've witnessed a case of the zoomies at some point, not realizing what they were. This article will tell you everything you need to know about this hilarious and unserious 'condition' and what you can expect.
- What Are the Zoomies?
- Why Do Dogs Have the Zoomies?
- What Should I Do When My Dog has Zoomies?
- Should I Let My Dog Do Zoomies?
- How Long Do Dog Zoomies Last?
- Wrapping Up the Zoomies
What are the Zoomies?
First and foremost, let's establish that zoomies aren't dangerous and it isn't an actual physical condition. Zoomies, also known as Frenetic Random Activity Periods, is a term used to describe random explosions of energy that dogs get. Zoomies are more frequent during the puppy stage, but they continue throughout your dog's life, as long as they're physically able.
A good way to recognize zoomies in your dog is if they randomly start to dart in all directions without meaning or purpose. It's how dogs release an excess or buildup of energy they've been holding onto throughout the day. For this reason, zoomies are most common early in the morning when dogs first wake up or late at night right before bed.
Why Do Dogs Have the Zoomies?
You should take comfort in knowing that zoomies are almost always a symptom of euphoria, happiness, and joy. Your dog gets super-excited about something and has to release its energy. They'll often have the zoomies if they want you to play with them or if you get them excited over a treat or going to the park.
However, there are times when dogs get the zoomies because they're anxious. Going to the vet or doing an activity they don't like, such as getting a haircut or bath, can also set off the zoomies. Stressful zoomies, however, usually happen after the fact when your dog is happy that their uncomfortable experience is over. Here are a few veterinarian explanations for why your dog has the zoomies.
- Excitement and Energy Buildup
The most common reason dogs have the zoomies is that they're excited or need to release pent-up energy.
Peer Pressure
Zoomies can also happen in dogs if they see other puppies or people running around and having a good time. This action either gets them wound up and excited or makes them feel like they have to duplicate the activity.
Relieving Stress
After an uncomfortable experience like the ones listed above, your dog will relieve its stress by having the zoomies.
What Should I Do When My Dog has Zoomies?
When your dog has the zoomies, the best thing you can do is to make sure everything is out of their way so they don't hurt themselves. Zoomies can happen in your yard, at the park, somewhere in your home, or anywhere else they get excited.
If zoomies happen in your home, they often start racing back and forth in your living room, jumping from couch to couch or chair to chair. As long as you're ok with your dog possibly scratching some of your furniture, you're best to let the zoomies run their course.
Take Protective Measures
Another good idea if your dog gets the zoomies often is to memorize their path. Dogs will usually follow the same pattern for their zoomies, including jumping on the same furniture or running in the same circle. Once you know where your dog does their zoomies, make sure they have a clear path and get anything out of the way that you don't want to be damaged.
Should I Let My Dog Do Zoomies?
If you were having the time of your life and started jumping up and down for joy, would you like it if someone made you stop? No! Zoomies are one of the many ways that dogs show you they're happy or excited. However, like all things, there's a time and a place for random bursts of energy, and the best place for them to get the zoomies is in a safe and enclosed area such as the park or your yard.
If your dog happens to get the zoomies when they're off-leash, there's no telling where they'll end up. However, most dogs simply run in circles or back and forth on a closed path rather than sprinting in one direction. As long as they don't hurt you or themselves, zoomies are a healthy way for them to release their pent-up energy.
Can Zoomies Turn Into a Problem?
Of course, there's always the chance that zoomies could be linked to a behavioral or training problem. For example, if they get the zoomies often or at inopportune times, it could be a way for them to act out.
Zoomies are an adorable feature, but not if they're done out of rebellion or anxiety. You should keep tabs on how often your dog gets the zoomies and reign them in if they have them too often. You want your dog to have fun, but you also want them to behave and listen to you.
How Long Do Dog Zoomies Last?
Individual cases of the zoomies typically last from fifteen to thirty seconds or a minute at most. The older your dog gets, the quicker their zoomies will end. Zoomies are also more common and frequent during the puppy stage and lessen or disappear altogether as your dog ages. If you don't want your dog having the zoomies, you can try a few things.
Treats
Anytime you don't want your dog to do something, treats are your best bet. Dogs respond much better and more joyfully to a carrot than a stick. Rewarding your dog for stopping their zoomies is always preferable to punishment.
- Distraction
You can also try running in the opposite direction from your dog as they're having the zoomies or shouting their name to distract them. However, when a dog has a good case of the zoomies, they're often "in the zone," so to speak. Getting their attention with anything other than a treat isn't likely.
Wrapping Up the Zoomies
Essentially, zoomies are your dogs' way of letting you know that they're happy. It's an expression of joy and delight and is one of the most entertaining things to witness as a dog owner. As long as your canine isn't at risk and doesn't have a behavioral issue, there's no reason to put a hamper on their fun.
More Articles
Share via:
