Dog Zoomies: What They Are and Why Your Dog Gets Them

Have you ever seen your dog suddenly take off and run around in circles for a few moments? Most every dog owner has noticed this behavior now and then, and even older dogs periodically have this experience. Scientifically, these times are called frenetic random activity periods, but dog owners know them better as “dog zoomies.”

So what makes your dog get the zoomies? Is this a normal dog behavior, or is something potentially wrong with your pup? We’ve gathered the information you need to know about dog zoomies into the article below. You can read through this guide to learn more about your dog’s behavior and what it might mean.

Why Do Dogs Zoom?

Dogs experience frenetic random activity periods, or dog zoomies, because they have energy that needs to go somewhere. This energy may be physical (as it is most of the time) or it could be emotional or mental energy they are getting rid of after a stressful experience.

Whatever the source of the energy might be, the zoomies are a natural part of being a dog, and it’s not uncommon for all dogs to have the zoomies now and then.

Letting Out Built Up Energy

When dogs zoom, they are letting all their built up energy out in a quick moment. Zoomies usually only last for a minute or two, but they give your dog a chance to let off a lot of energy, especially if she hasn’t had a chance to play or exercise much yet that day.

As long as your dog seems perfectly fine otherwise with no concerning symptoms, zoomies are nothing to worry about. Just make sure your dog is still willing to come to you when called, even if she’s in the middle of a zoom.

Do Only Puppies Get Dog Zoomies?

Not at all! However, puppies are much more likely to get a case of the zoomies than older dogs, simply because they have a lot more built up energy they need to get rid of. Puppy wiggles and puppy zoomies are part of everyday life with a dog who is under one year of age, and especially with one who is less than six months of age.

If you have a young puppy, get ready to experience plenty of zoomies for a while!

Zoomies in Older and Senior Dogs

It is possible for older adult and even senior dogs to get a case of the zoomies now and then. Certain events or experiences might cause your dog to start zooming, even if she is well past her puppy years. As long as she is physically safe—that is, not about to fall or run into something—and she isn’t showing signs of distress or any odd symptoms, there is no cause for concern.

Are There Any Specific Triggers for Dog Zoomies?

The usual cause of your pet having the zoomies is that she needs to get rid of some energy that she has bottled up. However, there are some other causes that could trigger this behavior in your dog that you should be aware of.

Common triggers for dog zoomies include, but may not be limited to:

Releasing Built Up Energy

The most common trigger for zoomies is simply the expending of energy. If your dog spends her day in a crate until you get home from work, she may experience the zoomies shortly after being let out of her crate.

Being Outside or with Other Dogs

Dogs may also have a case of the zoomies after they’ve been outside or interacted with other dogs, because they feel so excited and energetic about the activity.

First Waking Up

Your dog may also experience the zoomies right after waking up in the morning, because they have plenty of energy they need to use for the day ahead.

Stressful Experiences

Some dogs may have the zoomies as a result of a stressful experience. For example, if your dog is afraid of car rides but had to go in the car for a while, she may let off her nervous energy with some zoomies when she feels safe again.

This is normal, and it is a healthy way for your dog to expend her anxiety.

Are Dog Zoomies Something to Worry About?

As you can see, there’s usually nothing to worry about if your dog has a case of the zoomies. If she’s having fun, seems healthy and alert, and goes back to her normal behavior after a few moments of running around, there is no cause for alarm. The zoomies are just a normal part of being a dog, no matter what your pet’s age might be.

A dog who is running happily and doesn’t show any signs of distress is a happy dog, and is just blowing off some energy. Let your dog zoom to her heart’s content, and enjoy getting a chance to watch her!

Signs to Look Out For

That being said, there are some signs you should look for that may tell you if your dog is dealing with another issue. For example, if your dog is walking erratically in circles and seems to be off-balance or unable to respond to you, then she may be suffering from a seizure.

This looks much different than a case of the zoomies, however, so it’s fairly easy to tell the difference between the two.

Dog Zoomies are Completely Normal

As you can see, while zoomies can be caused by a couple different things or situations, this is still a very common behavior among dogs. Some dogs, especially puppies, are prone to having the zoomies because they have so much energy that they need to release somehow.

If you have any questions about dog zoomies, or if you’re wondering if there could be something else that’s causing a certain behavior in your pet, call our team at The Village Vets today. Our veterinarians will offer insight into your pet’s behavior and offer any additional help, as needed.