Why Do Dogs Get The Zoomies?

If you are a pet parent, you are likely familiar with "the zoomies." Dog Zoomies occur when your pet experiences a sudden surge of energy. They start running around at high speeds and engaging in erratic behavior. While it may seem like a case of spontaneous doggy insanity, there is actually a science behind it.

This article will explore the question, "why do dogs get the zoomies," and identify how you can help manage this exciting burst of energy.

Reasoning Behind the Zoomies

The zoomies typically occur after periods of rest, or in response to specific triggers. The following are some of the most common answers for why do dogs get the zoomies.

Relieving Stress. Dogs, despite their reputation for being cheerful and carefree, are not immune to stress. Just like us, our furbabies have a range of emotions and can encounter various stressors in their lives. These stressors can manifest in different forms, such as fear, dog anxiety, or frustration.

Stress in dogs can stem from a variety of sources. Some stressors include environmental changes, social interactions, and a lack of mental stimulation. Zoomies can serve as a way for dogs to release pent-up stress and dog anxiety. This release of energy can be therapeutic and help them feel better after a stressful situation.

Letting Out Stored Up Energy. Dogs brim with energy naturally, a characteristic deeply rooted in their evolutionary history and genetic makeup. As descendants of wolves, they inherit an inclination for physical activity and endurance.

Young dogs, and breeds bred for high-energy tasks, have a strong tendency to have bursts of energy. Dogs need to release their energy through exercise, play, or mental stimulation. If they don't, it builds up and they require an outlet.

Handling Excitement and Play. Dogs are incredibly attentive to their surroundings. Even the slightest hints of impending joy can set them off on a whirlwind adventure. It could be the mere mention of a walk, the jingling of car keys, or the sight of their leash that sends them to action.

Moreover, playing with their pet parents can lead to happiness and excitement. This shows how much they care about us and how much joy they bring to our lives. The zoomies are a way for them to show their excitement by running around and playing energetically.

Managing Dog Zoomies

While zoomies are usually harmless and a natural part of a dog's behavior, there are some ways to manage them:

Regular Exercise. Ensuring that your dog receives an adequate amount of exercise each day is crucial for their physical and mental well-being. Dogs are naturally active animals, and physical activity is not just a luxury but a necessity for their overall health.

Without proper exercise, dogs can accumulate excessive pent-up energy, leading to a range of behavioral issues and even health problems. Daily exercise serves as a controlled outlet for their energy, offering numerous benefits.

Daily walks are a fundamental part of a dog's exercise routine. Regular walks provide them with the opportunity to explore their environment, stimulate their senses, and engage in low-intensity aerobic exercise. Physical activity during walks helps keep their muscles toned, maintain a healthy weight, and promote cardiovascular health.

Play sessions are equally vital, as they allow dogs to engage in more vigorous physical activity and mental stimulation. Playtime burns energy and reinforces the bond between you and your furry friend. Fetch, tug-of-war, or simply running around in the yard are excellent ways to engage your dog in physical play.

Mental Stimulation. Engaging your dog's mind is just as important as providing physical exercise when it comes to maintaining their overall well-being. Dogs are intelligent and curious creatures, and mental stimulation is essential for their mental health and behavior. When mentally engaged, dogs are less likely to experience those extreme bursts of energy or destructive behaviors.

To help mentally stimulate your furbaby, it's a good idea to offer them Forager® Mats or Forager® Bowls.

Designed as a food bowl replacement, Forager® Mats are a great way to promote their natural foraging instincts. The SoftSnout® material is non-abrasive and non-irritating, and great for all snouts - smooshed or pointy!

Unlike puzzles they are able to memorize, Forager® Mats change each time you add food. This activity taps into the natural dog instinct to forage and search for food, providing both mental and sensory stimulation. It is a rewarding experience for your dog as they successfully uncover the hidden treats.

Forager® Bowls are washable slow feeder dog bowls that offer a similar level of mental engagement, but in a different format. There are three Forager® Bowls, each providing a different difficulty level. The bowls also include a cinching feature, designed for on-the-go mental stimulation. The cinch also adds an additional level of difficulty if you have an expert sniffer.

When your dog eats from these slow feeder bowls, they must work to sniff out their food. This not only extends mealtime but also requires problem-solving and coordination. This slow feeder serves as an excellent way to challenge their cognitive abilities while promoting healthier eating habits.

Forager® Mats and Bowls are excellent way to keep your dog occupied when you are not available for direct play or interaction. They can help slow down eating and prevent problems like bloat and indigestion that come from eating too fast.

Routine. Dogs thrive on routine. Establish a consistent daily schedule for feeding, walks, and playtime. This predictability can help reduce excitement-triggered dog zoomies.

Establishing a consistent daily routine for your dog is one of the key ingredients to a happy and well-adjusted furbaby. Dogs are creatures of habit, and they thrive when they know what to expect in their daily lives. Creating a structured schedule for feeding, walks, and playtime makes life more predictable for your dog. It also has several benefits in reducing excitement-triggered zoomies and promoting their overall well-being.

A well-structured routine ensures that your dog's energy is managed throughout the day. Scheduled walks, for example, provide an outlet for physical exercise which can prevent excessive, pent-up energy. By controlling the timing and duration of activities, you can better manage your dog's energy levels. That may reduce the likelihood of zoomies occurring when they become overly excited.

Consistency in routine also has a stabilizing effect on a dog's behavior. When your furbaby knows when to expect certain activities, they are less likely to become overly aroused or anxious. This stability can help mitigate extreme reactions like why do dogs get the zoomies triggered by heightened excitement.

Safe Environment. Remove potential hazards and fragile objects from your dog's path during a zoomie episode to prevent accidents. Zoomies can turn your typically well-behaved dog into a whirlwind of energy. It is important to take steps to ensure their safety and minimize any potential damage.

In the midst of a burst of energy, dogs may not distinguish between valuable items and toys. Place fragile objects like vases, glassware, or electronic devices away to avoid the risk of damage.

To create a safe space for your dog during zoomies, follow these steps:

• Clear the room or area of any potential hazards or breakable items.
• Use baby gates or pet gates to limit access to specific areas in your home.
• Consider using a dog playpen or enclosure to provide a secure and contained space for zoomies.
• Keep an eye on your dog during zoomie episodes to make sure they're safe and step in if needed.

Chew Toys. Offering your dog appropriate chew toys, such as Gnawtlers®, is a proactive and beneficial approach to managing their energy levels and reducing stress. Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs. Providing them with a proper outlet for this activity can be beneficial to their mental and physical well-being.

Calming Supplements for dogs. Calming supplements for dogs, like Calming SoftSupps®, are designed to support your dog's emotional well-being by helping them stay relaxed in situations that might otherwise trigger dog anxiety, stress, or even the onset of zoomies. These calming supplements for dogs contain a blend of natural ingredients, such as Suntheanine®, Organic Hemp Extract, and Organic Chamomile, all known for their calming and anxiety-reducing properties.

It is important to note that while calming supplements can be beneficial in helping your dog stay relaxed, they are not a one-size-fits-all solution. It is recommended to consult with your veterinarian before introducing any supplements to your dog's routine. Your vet can provide guidance on the appropriate product, dosage, and usage based on your dog's specific needs and health considerations.

Dog zoomies are a normal, natural part of a dog's behavior. Zoomies can be seen as an expression of joy, excitement, even stress relief. While they can be entertaining to watch, it is essential to understand why dogs get the zoomies and how to help them manage their energy in a healthy way.