The Need For Speed: Zoomies Explained

Nothing is more entertaining than when your dog suddenly goes from 0 to 100. This huge burst of energy is known as “FRAP” or Frenetic Random Activity Period, more commonly known as the “zoomies.” Zoomies are frantic, repetitive activities such as running laps around the yard, racing in figure 8 patterns around the sofa, or zipping away from a friend, stopping, and zipping off again. In general, they aren’t cause for concern and can lead to funny moments with your pet.

What causes dogs to have the zoomies?

Positive Causes

For many dogs, zoomies are a release of energy or an alleviation of stress. For others, it may be an expression of joyful excitement. Many owners can rouse the zoomies with a playful bow to their dog, making an excitable sound, or even giving a bath. Wide open spaces, like a yard or park, are ideal for a dog with zoomies and may also trigger the behavior.

Negative Causes

Other dogs may get the zoomies if they’re crated too long during the day and are under-stimulated or under-exercised. Keep this in mind if your dog wants to race as you are winding down for the evening or during your dinnertime. They may be bored and attention-seeking or looking to stretch those tight muscles. Dogs lacking mental and physical enrichment may have random periods of high energy and destructive behavior like digging, barking, or anxiety when left alone.

Anal gland inflammation can cause excessive scooting which may appear similar to a dog with the zoomies and their tail tucked. A dog with a thorn stuck in its paw pad may run in circles trying to get it out. Similarly, a dog with an orthopedic injury may hop or try to run to get the joint back in alignment. Don’t mistake these poor pets for enjoying a zoomie!

Exercise & Enrichment

It’s best to have a consistent schedule with plenty of time for physical exercise like playing fetch, swimming, or hiking. If spending time outdoors isn’t an option, you can provide mental stimulation by practicing obedience skills, hiding treats, using food puzzles, or taking a class like scent work or agility. Dogs with neighborhood besties can get together for a doggie playdate as long as everyone is healthy and well-behaved.

Senior Pets

Remember your older pets need mental and physical enrichment as well. They don’t have the endurance or speed of younger pups, so a slow walk or “sniffari” in the neighborhood may be just the thing.

Body Language

Unlike a happy pup with a loose body, tongue out, and playful demeanor, an injured or scared dog is tense with a tucked tail and ears pinned back. A game of tag is only fun if both dogs are relaxed and looking to engage. If one pup is constantly “hounded” by the other and is trying to escape, it’s time to stop the high-speed chase.

The Need For Speed

In general, a dog with the zoomies is an opportunity to share a funny experience and deepen the bond with your pet. Make sure they have a safe space to run that is free from obstacles such as fallen branches or holes. Surfaces that provide traction like carpet, dirt, or grass are preferred to slippery surfaces which can lead to falls and injuries. Fenced yards are ideal for active dogs to run around safely.

The next time your dog gets the zoomies, just embrace it. After all, your dog isn’t crazy – they feel the need for speed!